Iowa Learning Farms, a conservation program with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, is organizing a bioreactor and cover crop field day on June 6 at Ron Vos' farm near Ireton. The event is free and open to farmers and landowners, and a complimentary meal will be provided.
Bioreactors and similar edge-of-field practices have been identified by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship as some of the most cost-effective methods for improving water quality. Bioreactors can be installed within existing filter strips and work with the field's drainage system to reduce nitrogen and phosphorus loads entering water bodies. When used in conjunction with cover crops, bioreactors can also help reduce soil erosion, weed growth, and increase organic matter in the soil.
The field day will include a demonstration of the Conservation On The Edge trailer and a site visit to Vos' bioreactor, installed in 2022. Vos will share his experience with the bioreactor, as well as how he has integrated cover crops into his system.
Ryan Johnson, a conservation agronomist with the Iowa Soybean Association, will provide best management practices for the northwest region of Iowa, while Colton Meyer, an environmental specialist with the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, will provide information about cost-share opportunities for bioreactors and cover crops.
The event will take place at 2766 450th Street in Ireton. To ensure adequate space and food, reservations are required. For reasonable accommodation and to RSVP, contact Liz Ripley at 515-294-5429 or ilf@iastate.edu. Attendees will be entered in a drawing for ISU Prairie Strips honey.
Photo Credit: GettyImages-eugenesergeev
Categories: Iowa, Crops