Yesterday, we talked with Iowa Ag Secretary Mike Naig about how conservation practices have been holding up with some of the near-historic flooding we are seeing along Iowa’s northern tier. He talked about a few great stories but highlighted how wetlands above the lakes region were doing phenomenal work in keeping soil erosion in check. And, that’s not where the good news about wetlands stops.
As we look at how 2024 is going, Secretary Naig talks about the positivity we are seeing in the adoption of many more conservation practices. While the numbers aren’t final quite yet, Naig believes we will set another record in the adoption of conservation practices. One of the highest growth rates has been seen with these wetlands.
When people think about wetlands, they may be thinking of ponds, sloughs, or creeks. Naig says it is much more than that, and it can be a very viable part of your fields and farming operation.
While the initial investment can be high, there are cost-share programs available, and the return on the effort speaks for itself. Not only are we purifying water, but we are creating habitat areas as well.
Naig encourages farmers to look at their acres, especially after a year of heavy rains and flooding. This is a prime time to look at where you might be able to be creative with some conservation practices in the future.
