Event Overview
Mark and Melissa Schleisman and their family raise popcorn, field corn, soybeans, rye, wheat, oats, cattle and hogs at M&M Farms in Calhoun County, Iowa. Soil and water conservation are a priority for the family. They use cover crops on all their fields, grazing the covers whenever possible. Over the past five years, they have worked with local organizations to install two wetlands that filter tile drainage, which can then be used to irrigate fields.
The Schleismans are excited to show their newest wetland project, which will be used to irrigate popcorn in surrounding fields. To further explore soil-building practices that improve water infiltration, they also double-crop wheat and soybeans. Come see how they are working toward their goal of using conservation practices while making cash flow.
Meal
A light meal will follow the field day at 2524 Fletcher Ave., about 1 mile east of the field day site.
See & Discuss
- Tile drainage pumped into a wetland to filter nitrates
- Irrigating popcorn with recycled drainage water
- Popcorn used for seed versus food-grade markets
- Double-cropping wheat and soybeans
- Equipment and strategies for double-crop planting and harvesting
Sponsors
- Iowa Corn Growers Association
- Iowa Nutrient Research Center
- Sunderman Farm Management Co.
