By Andi Anderson
Farmers and landowners across Iowa now have a new resource to help them connect with conservation experts and improve the stewardship of natural resources. The recently launched Iowa Conservation Professionals Map provides an easy way to find local advisors who can assist with conservation planning, funding opportunities, and the implementation of practices that support soil, water, and wildlife habitat.
The map was officially introduced on September 16 and serves as a statewide directory for conservation professionals working throughout Iowa. More than 70 professionals are available across the state, ensuring that farmers and landowners can access expert guidance close to home.
These conservation specialists work in a variety of organizations, including Soil and Water Conservation Districts, city and county governments, agricultural cooperatives, nonprofit organizations, the Iowa Department of Agriculture, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, and the Iowa Soybean Association. Many professionals hold positions such as Watershed Coordinator or Conservation Agronomist and provide valuable support to agricultural producers.
Before the creation of this tool, it was often difficult for farmers and landowners to identify and contact conservation experts in their area. The new map simplifies this process by allowing users to enter an address or select a parcel of land to locate nearby professionals and access their contact information directly.
The platform offers flexibility by presenting multiple advisor options in many counties. For example, in Plymouth County, users can find several professionals serving the region through different organizations. This gives farmers the freedom to choose the advisor and organization that best match their conservation goals and farming operations.
Conservation professionals play a critical role in helping producers adopt practices that improve environmental sustainability while maintaining productive farms. These practices may include cover crops, water quality improvements, soil conservation measures, and habitat enhancement projects. Advisors can also help connect landowners with available funding and technical assistance programs.
The Iowa Conservation Professionals Map is the result of a collaborative effort involving Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Iowa State University Geographic Information Systems, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the Iowa Soybean Association, The Nature Conservancy, and the Iowa Agriculture Water Alliance. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to advancing conservation across the state.
While the map includes a large network of experts, it does not currently list all conservation professionals working in Iowa. For example, employees of the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service are not included. However, additional resources remain available through Iowa State University Extension and Outreach for locating federal service centers and other natural resource specialists.
Research from Iowa State University has shown that regular interaction with conservation professionals is one of the strongest factors influencing the adoption of conservation practices by farmers. By making these experts easier to find, the new map aims to encourage greater participation in conservation efforts and support long-term environmental stewardship.
The Iowa Conservation Professionals Map represents an important step forward in connecting farmers and landowners with the expertise they need. By improving access to trusted advisors, the tool can help strengthen conservation efforts, protect natural resources, and support sustainable agricultural development across Iowa.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-shotbydave
Categories: Iowa, Sustainable Agriculture