MARCH 2019 STEWARDSHIP ADVOCATE UPDATE

Posted on March 25, 2019 at 1:21 PM by Iowa Corn

MONTHLY UPDATE FROM BEN GLEASON, IOWA CORN SUSTAINABLE PROGRAMS MANAGER

Spring is finally here, and the grass is starting to green up! But that’s about it for good news. Unfortunately, the sudden arrival of spring after a snow-packed winter has created widespread flooding. Governor Reynolds has issued disaster proclamations for over 50 counties allowing state resources to be utilized for recovery. President Trump has done the same for federal assistance. The state has created a hotline at 211 and www.floods2019.iowa.gov to answer questions about the flood.

If you have recently experienced flooding, here are some resources:

Federal aid programs are available in designated counties for housing, property losses, residences, and more.
USDA programs are available to assist with crops, livestock, and conservation including:
Check private wells for contamination.
Flood damaged grain should be destroyed.

If you want to help flood victims, here are some options:

For Fremont County, Iowa, a fund for flood victims has been set up at the Tabor First State Bank (712-629-2435).
For Mills County, Iowa, donations to the Mills County Flood Fund will go directly to flood victims. Click here and then select “Southwest Iowa Funds” and “Mills County Flood Fund”.
Contribute to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund or United Way Flood Relief Fund.
To volunteer, contact the Salvation Army or dial 211.
Donate hay or drive truck for Farm Rescue.

NOAA’s spring outlook doesn’t look good, predicting historic flooding through May. Be prepared and stay safe!

FARMER TO FARMER: Using Conservation Practices Across Generations

Paul Gieselman from Louisa County discusses his conservation practices that have evolved through multiple generations and preserving the land for the next generation by reducing tillage.