By Andi Anderson
Seventeen Iowa landowners have successfully graduated from the 2025 Landowner Education Program organized by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.
This educational initiative aims to equip landowners with essential skills to improve soil health, apply conservation practices, and communicate effectively with tenants or family.
The program includes five in-person and two virtual sessions. Topics cover conservation practices like reduced tillage, cover crops, and perennials, along with financial and legal aspects tied to adopting these methods. Participants also build a strong network with conservation professionals and fellow landowners.
“In Iowa, 58% of farmland is leased,” said Catherine DeLong, ISU water quality program manager. “This program helps landowners understand how to care for their soil, use financial tools, and talk to others about changes.”
Other educators included Julia Baker, natural resources program specialist and co-leader, and professionals from ISU Extension, USDA, Practical Farmers of Iowa, Pheasants Forever, and more.
Brandon and Hannah Kerkhoff, first-time landowners from Carroll County, shared how the course made them more confident about long-term conservation practices. “The knowledge we have gained from this program has made us more confident using those continuously,” said Hannah.
Applications for the 2026 cohort will open in March. Participants will join summer sessions in central Iowa, focusing on conservation, leasing, tax planning, and communication skills. The program is free but limited in space, thanks to grant funding.
“This is a unique opportunity for landowners to take a deep dive into learning more about stewarding their land,” said Baker. Future sessions are planned for 2026, 2028, and 2030.
The Landowner Education Program continues to grow as an impactful tool in building environmental and economic resiliency in Iowa’s agricultural landscape.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-fotokostic
Categories: Iowa, Education, General