Cost share available for water quality practices

The 2016 sign-up period is open for cost share funds to help farmers install nutrient reduction practices. Practices eligible for this funding are cover crops, no-till or strip till, or using a nitrification inhibitor when applying fertilizer. Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey made the announcement today.

?We have seen significant growth in cover crops and other water quality focused practices in recent years, but many farmers are still exploring how they fit on their farm. This statewide program is designed to help them get started with a new practice and learn how they can use one or more of these tools to help protect water quality,? Northey said. ?I encourage farmers to reach out to their local Soil and Water Conservation District office for more information on how to apply.?

Washington County residents can contact the Washington Soil and Water Conservation District, 1621 East Washington Street, Washington, IA 52353, phone 319-653-6654, ext. 3.

The cost share rate for farmers planting cover crops is $25 per acre ($15 per acre for past cover-crop users) and for farmers trying no-till or strip till the rate is $10 per acre (first-time users). Farmers using a nitrapyrin nitrification inhibitor when applying fall fertilizer can receive $3 per acre (first time users). Farmers who have already used cover crops on their farm are eligible for a reduced rate of $15 per acre. First-time cover crop users will receive priority consideration for this assistance. Farmers are only eligible for cost share on up to 160 acres.

The funds will be made available in July, but farmers can immediately start submitting applications through the Washington Soil and Water Conservation District office.