By Andi Anderson
Adams County is the eighth county to join the successful Cattle and Conservation Working Lands Project. This initiative, led by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, promotes livestock farming while improving soil health and water quality.
The expansion was announced by Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig at the Iowa Cattle Industry Convention.
The project focuses on converting less profitable row crop fields into forage-based systems like hay and pasture.
This helps farmers enhance conservation efforts while benefiting their livestock operations. With precision agriculture tools, farmers can identify sub-field areas best suited for these practices. Cover crops seeded in the fall prevent soil erosion, improve water quality, and serve as forage for livestock.
Adams County joins seven other counties, including Taylor, Page, Guthrie, Woodbury, Cherokee, Ida, and Carroll, that have seen significant results.
Since the project began in Taylor County in 2017, over 6,500 acres have been converted to hay and grazing, and more than 50 ponds have been constructed. Similarly, Page County has converted 1,000 acres and expanded cover crops to 16,000 acres per year.
With support from partners like the Adams County Cattlemen’s Association and NRCS, the estimated cost-share for implementing practices in Adams County is around $744,000. The program aims to benefit livestock producers, improve soil health, and enhance water quality.
Chad Jacobs, President of Adams County Cattlemen, expressed excitement about the program's incentives, while Marnie Cline, a local livestock farmer, highlighted the benefits of returning marginal soils to hay and pasture.
This project demonstrates how livestock and conservation can work together to support agriculture, protect natural resources, and boost local economies. With growing success, more counties may follow Adams County’s lead in the coming years.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ahavelaar
Categories: Iowa, Livestock, Rural Lifestyle