The Grundy County Soil and Water Conservation District hosted a cover crop workshop on July 22nd at the Grundy County Fair. Between 50 and 75 farmers were in attendance throughout the day. Farmers were engaged throughout the half day event, asking 5-10 questions after each speaker.

“Farmers are hungry for information on cover crops.” states Clare Lindahl, Executive Director of Conservation Districts of Iowa. “It is exciting to see the Soil and Water Conservation District Commissioners leading by example and sharing their experiences.”

The workshop boasted twelve speakers which included Iowa’s Secretary of Agriculture, Bill Northey who uses cover crops in his own farming operation. Exhibits from Practical Farmers of Iowa, Iowa Learning Farms, Iowa State Extension and the Grundy County Soil and Water Conservation District provided materials and visuals of cover crop seeds, plants and demonstrated their ability to prevent erosion. Equipment used to apply cover crops was also on display.

Speakers touched on numerous cover crop topics and provided information on the economic and environmental benefits they gained from using them in their operation.

“I have cattle and I decided take advantage of having a rye cover crop.” says Grundy County Farmer and Soil and Water Conservation District Commissioner, Fred Abels, “I got 6 tons of forage per acre and hope for more in the future.”

To learn more about the event or cover crops contact Grundy County Soil and Water Conservation District, 805 West 4th Street, Suite 2, Grundy Center, Iowa 50638 denise.freeseman@ia.nacdnet.net, 319.824.3634