Field Days
Field days have been a core part of Practical Farmers since the beginning, when farmers would come together to share details of on-farm research and demonstration and learn from each other in a spirit of openness and curiosity. This remains true today. While spring and summer are our peak field day seasons, our members host events throughout the year, inviting fellow farmers and the public onto their farms to learn about topics that span the agricultural spectrum, and even the intersection of farming and local foods.
While the scope and number of these events has increased over the years as Practical Farmers has grown, the core purpose of these events remains the same: to share farming knowledge and discoveries, highlight on-farm research and build a vibrant community of farmers and non-farmers in support of a strong, sustainable agricultural system in Iowa. We typically host more than 35 field days, and co-host around 15 others, annually.
Virtual Cover Crop Field Day
Thursday, March 26 | 1 – 2 p.m.
We can all keep learning from each other while we practice social distancing. Take a virtual farm tour via Facebook Live with southeast Iowa cover cropper Mike Jackson. Learn how and why he uses cover crops, see some of the machinery he uses to get it done, and ask him questions!
Head to our Facebook page just before start time to join in.
Cancelled — FFA Field Day: Pasture-Based Family Farming for the Next Generation
Due to concerns regarding COVID-19 and our priority to keep our members, staff and partners safe, we have cancelled this field day.
Bruce and Connie Carney work with their next generation of farmers – Amber, Jared and Derek – to produce and direct market grass-fed and finished cattle, hair sheep, pigs and poultry. Carney Family Farms is located on 300 acres of pasture in central Iowa. The family has been integrating fruit, nut and shade trees to add additional enterprises and practice silvopasture with their diversity of livestock.
At this field day, learn from farmers and experts about a diverse grass-based farm by choosing from these stations:
• Livestock on the Land: Hear from Bruce Carney on how he manages grazing livestock and markets pasture-raised meat
• Agroforestry and Conservation With Trees and Habitat, taught by Jorgen Rose from Practical Farmers of Iowa
• Grazing and Birds taught by Drake University environmental science students
• Conservation Station: Iowa Learning Farms partners with Water Rocks! to discuss water cycles and soil health
• Practical Farmers of Iowa: Learn about resilient farms and communities through an interactive station with giveaways
2019 Field Days
Check out the 2019 field day lineup
Host a Field Day
If you are a member of Practical Farmers and would like to share your knowledge with other members, consider hosting a field day. Field day hosts are paid for their time and effort. Let us know your idea, and we will consider it when scheduling the next year’s field days.