Iowa Landowners Invited to Join Innovative Farmland Education Program

By Andi Anderson

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, with a team of specialists, is launching a groundbreaking Landowner Education Program aimed at helping landowners integrate soil health principles into their farmland. Bringing together experts in agronomy, conservation, finance, and law, the program seeks to guide landowners in making informed decisions for their land.

Designed for Iowa landowners keen on learning about soil health practices, understanding financial and legal aspects, and establishing a supportive network, the Landowner Education Program offers a unique opportunity. Interested landowners can apply until April 19 to be part of the inaugural cohort, which will be organized into small groups based on their awareness, motivations, and challenges related to conservation adoption.

Each cohort will attend six in-person educational events led by ISU Extension and Outreach specialists, illustrating how conservation practices can be practically implemented in the Iowa landscape.

Catherine DeLong, water quality program manager with ISU Extension and Outreach, emphasized the program's adaptive approach, recognizing that people make decisions based on various motivators. The program aims to effectively communicate conservation principles tailored to individual needs.

In Iowa, where 58% of farmland is leased, landowners play a crucial role in the adoption of conservation practices. The Landowner Education Program addresses the challenge by explaining how landowners can collaborate with tenants to implement mutually beneficial conservation practices.

The first year of the program targets landowners primarily engaged in row crops in central and north-central Iowa, particularly within the Des Moines River Watershed. Applicants of all knowledge levels are encouraged to apply before the April 19 deadline.

Julia Baker, natural resources program specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach, highlighted the program's acknowledgment of the steps involved in transitioning to conservation land management. This includes discussions with family members, legal consultations for lease agreements, and collaboration with tenants on cost-sharing and equipment needs.

For those interested, more information and a short assessment to determine program suitability are available online at naturalresources.extension.iastate.edu/programs/landowner-education.

For additional details, contact Catherine DeLong at crdelong@iastate.edu or Julia Baker at jaclymer@iastate.edu.

Photo Credit: Iowa State University