Published Jul 15, 2022

Field day will explore whole-farm conservation at Ann Smeltzer Charitable Trust Learning Farm – Aug. 3, near Otho
By Tamsyn Jones

Contacts:

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

OTHO, Iowa (July 15, 2022) — Ann Smeltzer Charitable Trust, in partnership with Practical Farmers of Iowa, will host a field day exploring the wide range of conservation practices integrated into the Ann Smeltzer Charitable Trust Learning Farm on Wednesday, Aug. 3, from 5-8 p.m., near Otho (2610 Nelson Ave.).

The event – “Whole-Farm Conservation Demonstration” – is free to attend and will include dinner. RSVPs are appreciated for the meal by July 29. Sign up online, or call Debra Boekholder at (515) 232-5661. The field day is sponsored by ARTi, Iowa Farmers Union and Sunderman Farm Management.

The Ann Smeltzer Charitable Trust Learning Farm is a 157-acre farm that is managed both as a profitable corn and soybean operation and as a demonstration platform for a range of conservation and agricultural innovations.

During the field day, guests will learn about the concept of whole-farm conservation, which seeks to address conservation priorities on the farm while remaining profitable. They will also have a chance to see and discuss a range of approaches to combining in-field and edge-of-field conservation practices.

Topics to be explored include:

  • cover crops and robotics
  • bioreactors
  • saturated buffers
  • oxbows
  • streambank stabilization
  • soil health
  • restoring beaver habitat
  • water quality testing
  • on-farm solar
  • cost-share opportunities.
  • landowner-tenant relationships
  • conservation programs

Full event details are available at practicalfarmers.org/ whole-farm-conservation-demonstration.

This event is part of PFI’s 2022 field day season, which includes 41 events hosted by farmers located across the state, and beyond, on topics spanning the agricultural spectrum. Attendees can expect a welcoming atmosphere, a spirit of curiosity, a culture of mutual respect and farmers openly sharing their knowledge and experience.

The full roster of events – along with additional information about PFI field day policies and logistics – is available at practicalfarmers.org/field-days. For questions, contact the PFI office at info@practicalfarmers.org or (515) 232-5661.

Practical Farmers’ 2022 field days are supported by Level A sponsors Albert Lea Seed; BioTill Cover Crops; Grain Millers Inc.; Iowa Agriculture Water Alliance; Iowa State University Department of Agronomy; Iowa State University Extension and Outreach; MOSA Certified Organic; Nori Carbon Removal; P&K Midwest; Sinclair Tractor; Sunderman Farm Management; and Van Wall Equipment.

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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.