Published Nov 5, 2021

Farmers invited to share feedback on federal conservation programs with PFI at forums in Oskaloosa and Storm Lake

By Tamsyn Jones

Contact:

Tamsyn Jones | Editor & Outreach Coordinator | Practical Farmers of Iowa | (515) 232-5661 | tamsyn@practicalfarmers.org

AMES, Iowa (Nov. 5, 2021) — Practical Farmers of Iowa invites farmers and landowners to share their views on two federal working lands programs – the Environmental Quality Incentives Program and the Conservation Stewardship Program – at one of two forums PFI is hosting in November.

The first forum will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 16, from 7-8:30 p.m., in Oskaloosa at the Fairfield Inn & Suites (2325 Coal Mine Loop).

The second forum will take place on Wednesday, Nov. 17, from 7-8:30 p.m. in Storm Lake at the Kings Pointe Waterpark Resort (1520 E Lakeshore Drive). Both events are free and refreshments will be provided. More details are available at practicalfarmers.org/conservation-program-forums.

Programs like EQIP and CSP provide valuable financial and technical assistance to farmers and landowners who want to try conservation practices like cover crops, extended crop rotations, managed grazing, prairie strips, wetland restorations and more. But these national programs are complex and may not always meet the needs of those who wish to use them.

The aim of each forum is to give farmers and landowners a chance to share their experiences, frustrations, questions and concerns with Practical Farmers staff.

“PFI and its members work in Iowa and nationally to guide the direction of these conservation programs so they better serve farmers and landowners,” says Jorgen Rose, PFI’s habitat and policy coordinator.

“Conservation programs like EQIP and CSP can help farmers and landowners improve soil health, protect water quality, provide space for wildlife and fight climate change. But we want to make sure they are empowering farmers to build healthy soil, healthy food, clean air, clean water, resilient farms and vibrant communities.”

Both forums will take place indoors, and all attendees will be required to wear masks regardless of vaccination status. PFI-branded masks and disposable masks will be available.

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About Practical Farmers

Practical Farmers of Iowa works to equip farmers to build resilient farms and communities. Our values include: welcoming everyone; farmers leading the exchange of experience and knowledge; curiosity, creativity, collaboration and community; resilient farms now and for future generations; and stewardship of land and resources. To learn more, visit http://practicalfarmers.org.