By Andi Anderson
Iowa farmers increasingly recognize the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy, yet views on its impact are mixed. A new Iowa State University Extension and Outreach report, based on the 2024 Iowa Farm and Rural Life Poll, compares farmer responses from 2014 and 2024 to show progress and gaps.
Awareness is high. Nearly 90% of farmers reported some knowledge of the strategy in 2024, up from 80% in 2014. Most learned about it through farm press, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, government agencies, and commodity groups.
Concern about agriculture’s impact on water quality remains substantial, though slightly lower than a decade ago. About 70% are concerned, down from 76% in 2014. Just under half agree that nutrients from Iowa farms contribute to Gulf hypoxia, while many are unsure.
Support has softened modestly. Seventy-four percent agree that farmers should do more to reduce nutrient and sediment losses, compared to 84% in 2014. Sixty-three percent would like to improve conservation practices on their land, and 52% believe agricultural retailers should do more to help address nutrient losses.
Barriers are practical. The most cited obstacles are landlords’ reluctance to invest in conservation and short-term pressure to protect profit margins, each noted by 53% of respondents. Twenty percent agree that further reductions would be too costly, and 58% indicate uncertainty about the expense.
Uncertainty on effectiveness is widespread. Forty-one percent agree the strategy has made major strides in reducing nutrient loss, but nearly half are unsure. This suggests a need for clearer measurable performance measures, more local success stories, and assistance that links practices to water-quality results.
The report points to steps that can rebuild momentum: strengthen landlord-tenant cooperation, reward early adopters, expand cost-share and technical support, and highlight profitable systems such as cover crops, reduced tillage, prairie strips, and edge-of-field practices.
Report author J. Arbuckle emphasizes the broader stakes: “All of us in the agricultural community need to up our game to help farmers maintain progress toward INRS goals.” With renewed commitment, collaboration, and practical support, Iowa can accelerate conservation adoption while sustaining profitability, keeping soils productive and waters cleaner for the long term.
Photo Credit: iowa-state-university
Categories: Iowa, Education, Sustainable Agriculture