Now is the best time to apply for cover crop funds

     The Jones Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) commissioners and staff encourage farmers that are interested in cost share funds for fall cover crops and other nutrient reduction practices to apply for the funds now.

     The agriculture community recognizes the value of conservation practices and the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship is committed to protecting our natural resources for future generations. Water Quality Initiative (WQI) cost share funds help farmers and landowners install nutrient-reducing conservation practices around the state. The funds can be used to off-set the cost of cover crops, no-till/strip till or a nitrification inhibitor, which help improve soil health, reduce erosion and improve water quality.

     Last fall, more than 2,900 farmers signed up to participate in the program and invested an estimated $10.2 million in funding to match $6.1 million through the state’s WQI cost share fund. Participants included 1,200 farmers using a conservation practice for the first time and more than 1,700 farmers continuing their conservation practices.

     Applications are being accepted now and should be made as soon as possible. The cost share rate for first-time users of cover crops is $25 per acre and $15 per acre for farmers that have used cover crops in their farming operation in the past.   No-till or strip till are eligible for $10 per acre; and farmers using a nitrapyrin nitrification inhibitor when applying fall fertilizer can receive $3 per acre.  Farmers are eligible for cost share on up to 160 acres for all practices under the WQI program.

     To apply or inquire about additional opportunities for cost share funding, call the Jones SWCD at 319-462-3196, ext. 3.  Due to the Covid-19 situation, our office at 300 Chamber Drive, Anamosa is currently closed to the public.  However, we continue to serve our customers by phone, e-mail and mail.