By Andi Anderson
The Iowa Grazing Academy is a special training program designed for livestock producers and land managers who want to improve their grazing practices. The program combines online learning with in-person field days to provide both knowledge and practical experience.
The online sessions will take place from July 13 to July 22, 2026, running daily from noon to 1:30 p.m. These sessions are flexible, allowing participants to attend all or selected topics based on their schedule. For added convenience, all sessions will be recorded and shared for later viewing.
The training will cover several important topics related to grazing and livestock care. Participants will learn about forage growth and selecting the right plant species for better results. Sessions will also focus on animal nutrition and health, which are essential for maintaining strong and productive livestock. Other important topics include rotational stocking, alternative forages, pasture infrastructure, enterprise budgeting, weed control, and the use of modern grazing technologies.
After completing the online sessions, participants will have the option to attend field days held at different locations across Iowa. These field days will give farmers a chance to see real life examples and gain hands-on experience. The focus will be on managing summer crops, improving grazing in cool-season pastures, and understanding rotational stocking practices.
The field day events are scheduled at three locations. The first will be held on July 23 at Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids. The second event will take place on July 28 at K7 Hereford in Lockridge. The final field day will be organized on August 4 at 2XL Cattle Company in Boone.
Participating in online sessions is free, while attending a field day requires a small registration fee of twenty dollars per person. Farmers are encouraged to register in advance, especially for field days, to help organizers manage arrangements.
This program is supported by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, making it a valuable opportunity for farmers to improve their grazing systems and achieve better farm productivity through sustainable practices.
Photo Credit: istock-alenamozhjer
Categories: Iowa, Rural Lifestyle