We have been seeing the push towards more conservation farming practices for a while now. The results have been looking good when it comes to protecting the soil and water in the state. One of the most common practices we are seeing used is cover crops. It is one of the simplest options to implement and doesn’t require any kind of construction. All you need is a seeder and patience.
Once again, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship is offering an incentive for farmers who plant cover crops in the form of a discount for your crop insurance. In its eighth year, this groundbreaking program has set a standard for other states and the federal government to follow. So far, almost 2,000 farmers have registered over 1.2 million acres of cover crops in the program. To be eligible for the program, the cover crop acres must not be enrolled in other state or United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) cost share programs.
Iowa Ag Secretary Mike Naig tells us more.
To be eligible for the Crop Insurance Discount Program, it’s important to note that the cover crop acres should not be part of other state or federal cost share programs. Farmers are encouraged to explore the various cost-share funding options available at their local USDA Service Center to facilitate the adoption of conservation practices. It’s worth mentioning that certain insurance policies, like Whole-Farm Revenue Protection or those covered through written agreements, might not be included in this program. Participants are expected to adhere to the farming practices mandated by their respective policy and collaborate with their insurance agencies to ensure continued eligibility.
The sign-up period will begin on Monday, December 2, 2024, and will close on Friday, January 24, 2025. Participants can learn more about enrollment by visiting CleanWaterIowa.org or by contacting their crop insurance agent.
