By Andi Anderson
Iowa Learning Farms is set to host a cover crop and manure management field day in Le Mars on November 3, 2026, as part of its "Beyond the Basics: Advanced Cover Crop Series." The event is designed to help farmers and landowners learn more about improving soil health, managing nutrients efficiently, and supporting sustainable crop production.
The free event will run from noon to 2 p.m. and includes a complimentary meal for attendees. Organizers aim to provide practical information and real-world examples that producers can apply on their own farms.
According to Mitch Harting, water outreach specialist with Iowa Learning Farms, cover crops and manure management can work together to improve farming systems and environmental outcomes. Harting said, “Cover crops play a key role in ensuring healthy land and water resources in our state. Although livestock manure can add another moving piece, it also offers an opportunity to diversify nutrient sources needed for crop production. This field day will offer more insights into how cover crops and manure can be used together to maximize their benefits.”
The program will feature several agricultural experts who will discuss the value of combining these conservation practices. Leah Ten Napel, field agronomist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, will explain the important role cover crops play across agricultural landscapes and how they can be successfully incorporated into corn and soybean production systems.
Attendees will also hear from Daniel Andersen, associate professor and extension manure management specialist with Iowa State University. He will discuss ways manure can be integrated into cropping systems that include living cover crops, helping producers better manage nutrients while maintaining productive fields.
In addition, local farmer and Plymouth County Soil and Water Conservation District commissioner Tony Schroeder will share his hands-on experience using cover crops and manure on his farm. His practical insights will provide participants with examples of how these practices can be implemented successfully in real farming operations.
The event will begin at the upper level of the Le Mars Convention Center, located at 275 12th Street SE in Le Mars. Participants will then travel to the Tony Schroeder Farm, situated at the corner of K64 and 230th Street, for field demonstrations and discussions.
Reservations are required to ensure adequate seating and meals. Interested farmers and landowners must RSVP by Oct. 27. Those attending will also be entered into a drawing to win Iowa State Prairie Strips honey.
Supported by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, the field day offers an excellent opportunity to learn advanced conservation practices that can strengthen farm productivity, protect natural resources, and improve long-term sustainability.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-mvburling
Categories: Iowa, Sustainable Agriculture