Learn how cover crops are good for water quality and farmers bottom line

NEVADA - Caught between unpredictable trade conditions and uncooperative weather, Iowa farmers are under more pressure than ever. Perhaps that's why recently there has been a surge in interest in the practice of cover cropping: growing non-cash crops in between row crops or in the off-season.

The benefits range from faster drainage of water and reduced nutrient runoff to reduced quantities of herbicide needed and discounted crop insurance rates. Iowa Learning Farms, Iowa Farmers Union, Practical Farmers of Iowa, Soil Health Partnership, Iowa Seed Association, Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship Water Quality Initiative, Iowa Corn, Iowa Soybean Association and Iowa Agriculture Water Alliance have all come together to present a series of field day events to provide more information about this practice.

The events will take place in several locations around the state and are open to anyone who wants to learn more about cover crops and insurance incentives for cover cropping. Each day will include a farm tour, panel discussion with local farmers, and a presentation including information about making cover crops pay, crop insurance discount options, water quality and earthworm impacts. The events are free to attend and a complimentary meal is included.

Nov. 13, 5 -7:30 p.m., hosted by Nick Meier, Single Speed Brewing Co., 325 Commercial St., Waterloo.

Nov. 14, 12 -3 p.m., hosted by Dick Lund, West Iowa Bank, 202 W Main St., Laurens.

Nov. 15, 12 -3 p.m., hosted by Mike Helland, Huxley Learning Center, 1551 Highway 210, Huxley.

For more information or to register for an event, please visit https://iowafarmersunion.org/upcoming-events/events-calendar/.