2020 May Stewardship Advocate

Posted on May 26, 2020 at 12:38 PM by Iowa Corn

MONTHLY UPDATE FROM BEN GLEASON, IOWA CORN SUSTAINABLE PROGRAMS MANAGER

May 2020

As planting wraps up, there are some opportunities below to consider for implementing conservation practices such as cover crops this year. As we start to reopen from coronavirus closures, below are few resources and be sure to call ahead to make sure in-person events have not been postponed.

Sign up is open for several cost share programs. Below are just a few examples. USDA service centers are open by phone appointment only.

The Iowa Water Quality Initiative has cost share funds available for cover crops, no-till, strip-till, and nitrification inhibitors. Click here for more info.
Sign up is open until June 30 for Pheasant Forever’s Soil Health and Habitat Program, funded by pet care leader Purina. Incentives for precision ag business planning and habitat are available in the prairie pothole region.
The Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) is offering a new pilot program in the prairie pothole states including Iowa. The Soil Health and Income Protection Program is accepting applications until August 21. However, only 50,000 acres are available for this first-come, first-served pilot.
CRP’s continuous sign up program is accepting applications for certain practices such as buffer strips, waterways, and wetlands. Applications are automatically accepted if the applicant meets eligibility requirements.

Finally, Montag Manufacturing will be demonstrating some of its equipment for interseeding cover crops into standing corn. If you’re interested in using the equipment for planting your cover crops, please reply to this email for more information and locations of demonstrations.