By Andi Anderson
Iowa Learning Farms, in collaboration with the Middle Iowa Watershed Management Authority and the Marshall County Natural Resource Conservation Service, will host a free Wetland and Prairie Field Day on Thursday, June 12.
The event runs from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Tony and Roberta Brink’s farm near Haverhill, Iowa. It is open to farmers, landowners, and conservation enthusiasts, with lunch provided.
Wetlands and prairie once covered much of Iowa’s landscape. Today, these systems continue to support water quality, wildlife habitat, and flood reduction.
The field day will offer a hands-on look at how wetlands and prairies can be developed and managed to benefit both the environment and farming operations.
The day begins with landowner Tony Brink, who will share his journey since purchasing the property in 1990 and the work he has done to restore natural ecosystems.
Kay Stefanik, assistant director of the Iowa Nutrient Research Center, will explain the environmental benefits of wetlands. Kevin Andersen, Iowa DNR biologist, will provide tips on creating and maintaining prairie systems.
Doug Roupp, district conservationist with Marshall NRCS, will give an overview of cost-share programs that support landowners in adopting conservation practices. After lunch, Emily Herring from the Marshall County Conservation Board will lead a prairie plant identification activity.
The event will take place at 2551 Marsh Ave, Haverhill. Signs will guide visitors to the field day site. Attendees are advised to wear long pants and closed-toe shoes. Insect repellent will be provided.
To RSVP, contact Liz Ripley at 515-294-5429 or email ilf@iastate.edu by June 5. All attendees will be entered into a drawing for ISU Prairie Strips honey. The event is supported by USDA NRCS and Iowa Learning Farms.
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Categories: Iowa, General