By Andi Anderson
Iowa's push for cleaner water gets stronger as Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig announces the expansion of the successful Water Quality Initiative. This project, initially in a few counties, now covers more areas in Northwest Iowa, aiming for better conservation methods.
Started in 2014, the Deep Creek Water Quality Initiative Project has already used cover crops on about 27,000 acres. Now, it's not just about cover crops; they're adding new ways to protect water at the edges of fields. Things like special buffers and filters will stop nutrients from getting into the water.
Naig is excited about how local farmers and partners have been helping this project grow. The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship is putting in over $660,000 for this next step. Many groups, like the USDA and local farming associations, are joining in too, showing support for better farming that helps the environment.
Farmers and landowners who want to help make the water cleaner can get involved by talking to their local soil and water conservation district office. This bigger project is a big move towards keeping Iowa's water clean and making farming more sustainable.
Photo Credit: istock-blackjack3d
Categories: Iowa, Sustainable Agriculture