Funds will soon be available to help farmers in the state of Iowa to install nutrient reduction practices.  Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey announced a cost share plan for first-time users of cover crops at $25 per acer, $10 per acer for not-till or strip till, and $3 per acre for using a nitrification inhibitor when applying fall fertilizer.  Farmers who have previously planted cover crops may be eligible for $15 per acre, although farmers not already using these practices will receive priority.

“We continue to hear from farmers interested in doing even more to limit nutrient loss and better protect water quality and these funds will help them try new voluntary science-based conservation practices on their farm,” Northey said.

Farmers are 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 their local Soil and Water Conservation District office.

Farmers are also encouraged to visit their local Soil and Water Conservation District office to inquire about additional opportunities for cost share funding through other programs offered at their local SWCDs.