Field day season is almost here! View the schedule.
Exploring Alternative Practices
Exploring Alternative Practices: Successes and Challenges in Pursuit of Sustainability
Tuesday, June 10
10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Location
2590 220th St.
Arion, IA 51520
Host
Eric Mahaney, BioCovered
Over the past decade, Eric has transformed his farming operation in western Iowa, with a focus on improving water quality, weed management and overall efficiency. He has adopted practices such as cover cropping and adding small grains to rotations. Eric also plants into living cover (known as planting green) to manage weeds, reduce erosion and promote soil health.
In pursuit of greater financial viability for his farm, Eric launched Graz’n, a value-added pet food business. He also started BioCovered, which specializes in cover crop application and equipment sales. He’s eager to show how he has optimized efficiency on his farm through the innovative use of a rotary hoe equipped with an air seeder and computer system. Join us to discuss and see first-hand Eric’s pursuit of sustainability on his organic farm operation.
Meal
A light meal will follow the field day.
See & Discuss
- Corn planted green into alfalfa to reduce cultivation, control weeds and reduce nitrogen inputs
- Cereal rye to be harvested as cover crop seed
- Reducing field passes with a custom-designed rotary hoe mounted with an air seeder
- Steps to purifying water quality on the farm
- Focusing on return on investment rather than yield in an organic system
Location Notes
If coming from the north, come through Denison and take U.S. 30 going west until Q Avenue to avoid low-maintenance roads. From Q Avenue, head northwest, turn right onto 220th Street and then turn right onto the first driveway.
Farm Info
Sponsors
- Farming for Public Health
- Iowa State University Organic Agriculture Program
- OCIA Chapter 1 of Iowa