By Andi Anderson
Iowa landowners now have the opportunity to apply for the 2026 Landowner Program: Balancing Profitability, Stewardship and Legacy, offered by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.
The application period is open until April 10, and the program will hold its learning activities in June and July. This educational initiative is designed for individuals who own land primarily used for row crops and who want to build their knowledge of soil health, conservation practices and long‑term land management.
Participants in the program will take part in two virtual sessions and five in‑person events located in the Ames area of central Iowa. The program has been made available at no cost between 2024 and 2026 thanks to grant funding.
After 2026, there will be a participation fee, with the next offering scheduled for 2028. The goal is to ensure accessibility for landowners who want to improve their understanding of conservation without financial barriers.
The Landowner Program includes guidance from Iowa State University experts in conservation, agronomy, economics and law.
Catherine DeLong, water quality program manager, highlighted the purpose of the program. She explained, “There are many steps in between interest and conservation practice implementation. This can include discussing with family members or other land beneficiaries, speaking with a lawyer to adapt or create a written lease, discussing practices with a tenant, including cost-share of any expenses, equipment needs, etc.” She added, “We know landowners care about their land and value stewardship, but may need help navigating the financial, legal and relational aspects of transitioning to conservation land management.”
Julia Baker, natural resource program specialist and co-leader of the program, noted that the application helps instructors design relevant content.
“The Landowner Program application seeks to understand what participating landowners are most interested in learning about and where they need help,” she said. “We take that into account as we develop the program and create a curated educational plan that uses the landowners’ time thoughtfully.”
Past participants have shared positive feedback. Jim Sayers, from the 2024 cohort, said, “After each and every session, I came home energized and excited by what I learned, the great people in my cohort group and the new conservation connections I made.” He added, “So many great resources, experts and sources of conservation info to help landowners like me! It was an outstanding program that will help me make wise(r) conservation decisions in the future.”
Brandon and Hannah Kerkhoff, members of the 2025 class, also expressed appreciation. Hannah shared, “We’ve always dabbled in conservation practices, but the knowledge we have gained from this program has made us more confident using those continuously.” Brandon added, “After each meeting, there was always a piece of information we learned that was something new. It was great to get that. It’s the small things that can help us make a big difference.”
Landowners interested in applying can visit the program webpage or contact Catherine DeLong at crdelong@iastate.edu or Julia Baker at jaclymer@iastate.edu for more details.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Iowa, Rural Lifestyle