By Andi Anderson
Iowa landowners interested in soil conservation and farm management can now apply for the 2025 Landowner Education Program, offered by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. The application deadline is April 4, with program events scheduled in June and July.
This free program is designed for landowners whose primary land use is row crop farming. It includes two online workshops and five in-person sessions in the Ames-Ankeny area of central Iowa. The program is sponsored, making participation cost-free, though space is limited.
The Landowner Education Program provides valuable insights from Iowa State experts in conservation, agronomy, economics, and law. According to Catherine DeLong, water quality program manager, landowners face multiple steps when implementing conservation practices, such as discussing plans with family members, adapting leases, and managing costs with tenants. Expert guidance helps participants navigate these complexities.
To tailor the program to participants’ needs, landowners complete a survey outlining topics of interest. Julia Baker, natural resource program specialist, explains that this allows organizers to create an educational plan that maximizes participants' time and learning.
The program also fosters networking among landowners, encouraging interactive discussions and shared experiences. Past participant Carolyn Harryman highlighted the program’s value, noting that it significantly improved her farming knowledge.
Interested landowners can apply online through the Landowner Education Program webpage. With expert guidance and networking opportunities, this program offers essential support for those looking to enhance their land management practices.
Photo Credit: istock-dusanpetkovic
Categories: Iowa, Rural Lifestyle