The State of Iowa gives $282,680 grant to help farmers implement cover crops in the Turkey River watershed and two others

The State of Iowa has given a $282,680 grant to Practical Farmers of Iowa for a demonstration project to show farmers the implementation and value of incorporating cover crops into row crop production fields along the Turkey River, Floyd River and Raccoon River.

The nearly $400,000 project will include partners Iowa State University Extension, Iowa Beef Center, Iowa Cattleman's Association, Iowa Learning Farms, and USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service.

Cover crops have a significant impact on reducing both nitrogen and phosphorus losses while also providing a high-quality, low-cost livestock feed.  Planting cover crops, then grazing or harvesting them is a practical way to effectively reduce nutrient pollution, plus provide economic benefits to cattle owners.

Practical Farmers of Iowa is hoping that the lessons learned in implementing this project along the Turkey River Watershed can be shared with other farmers across the state.