GROWMARK and the FS System have been leaders in the state of Illinois when it comes to helping farmers adopt best management practices to reduce nutrient losses, contributing to the success of the state’s Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy. At the Farm Progress Show this week, Iowa Agriculture Secretary Bill Northey visited the GROWMARK FS tent to learn what he can adopt in his state.

Northey is particularly interested in growing adoption of cover crops. “For a farmer to go out there and spend a significant amount of money to start cover crops, you’ve got to figure out how it’s going to work,” he said.

Ben Nuelle with Iowa Agribusiness Radio Network and I had a chance to talk with Northey about that and various other topics.

audio file: Interview with IA Ag Secretary Bill Northey

The Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy Biennial Report was released this week at the Farm Progress Show, describing actions taken during the last two years to reduce nutrient losses and influence positive changes in nutrient loads over time. GROWMARK chairman and Champaign, Illinois farmer John Reifsteck says they have been very involved with making sure farmers do the right thing in their fields. “We’ve been using the science-based approach, the 4R program is really the cornerstone of what we are implementing,” he said.

audio file: Interview with GROWMARK chairman/president John Reifsteck

View and download photos from the event here: 2017 Farm Progress Show Photo Album