Calvin Van Genderen's farm in Iowa is a special place. It used to be old mines, but now it's a happy farm where animals eat and play. This story will be told at a fun event by Iowa Learning Farms, with help from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, Iowa State University, and Pathfinders RC&D.
On August 30, from 10:30 in the morning to 12:30 in the afternoon, there will be a special day on Calvin's farm. People can learn about how the farm changed and became nice. It's near Eddyville.
Calvin had some problems with his animals getting sick and having babies. He found out that old stuff from mines in the water was making them sick. He worked with a program that helps with old mines and got clean water for his animals. This made them better. At the event, people can see a new field that used to be an old mine.
People who know a lot about animals and farms will talk at the event. They will tell the best ways to take care of fields and animals. They will also talk about how the program helps old mines become better places.
A long time ago, Iowa had many places where they took coal out of the ground. The program that helps old mines wants to make them good again. They want to make them into nice fields and good places for animals and plants.
Calvin's farm is at 19572 165th St., Eddyville. People who have farms or land can come to the event. They need to tell Liz Ripley if they're coming, so they have enough space and food. You can call her at 515-294-5429 or email her at ilf@iastate.edu. People who come might win honey from Iowa State Prairie Strips.
The program to make old mines better is helped by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. If you want to know more about Iowa Learning Farms, go to iowalearningfarms.org.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-jimfeng
Categories: Iowa, Livestock