Farmers will open their farms to share firsthand experiences and practical insights
Contact: Elizabeth Wilhelm | Senior Media Relations Coordinator | (515) 232-5661 | gro.sremraflacitcarp@mlehliw.htebazile
AMES, Iowa (May 22, 2026) — From cattle grazing and cover crops to vegetables and habitat restoration, Practical Farmers of Iowa’s 2026 field day season will bring farmers together across the Midwest. This year, more than 60 farmer-led events will take place from June through November across Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska and Wisconsin.
All events are led by PFI farmer-members who are eager to share knowledge, discoveries, mistakes and successes so others can learn and grow their own operations.
“No matter your interests, there’s probably a field day that fits,” says Liz Kolbe, PFI's farmer-led education director. “Because these events are hosted by farmers on their own farms, attendees get the chance to see practices in action and have candid conversations about what’s working and what isn’t.”
Field days cover a wide range of topics, showcasing farms of all sizes and production practices. Topics include cover crops; reducing inputs and relay cropping in row crops; grazing sheep and cattle; growing flowers, vegetables and peaches; restoring prairie habitat for pollinators; producing honey; improving water quality; using new farm technology; and more.
“We often hear from members how valuable it is to learn from fellow farmers,” Liz says. “PFI field days give attendees a firsthand look at how others are approaching things like improving soil health, diversifying their operations, cutting input costs and building profitable businesses.”
PFI field days are free to attend and open to anyone. Membership in Practical Farmers of Iowa is not required. In addition to farmers, non-farmers interested in agriculture, conservation or local food systems are encouraged to attend.
All events occur rain or shine. While RSVPs are not required for most events, they are appreciated to help with meal planning.
The full list of field days – along with additional information about PFI field day policies and logistics – is available at practicalfarmers.org/field-days.
PFI’s 2026 field days are supported by Level A sponsors: Bio Till Cover Crops; Choose Iowa | Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship; Diverse Corn Belt; Farming for Public Health; Grain Millers; Green Cover; Millborn; Niman Ranch; and Sunderman Farm Management Co.
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About Practical Farmers: Practical Farmers of Iowa is a nonprofit with more than 9,000 members that equips farmers to build resilient farms and communities. We create learning opportunities via farmer-led events, on-farm research and educational content through our robust network of farmers. We also provide funding and technical assistance to help farmers adopt regenerative farming practices and grow farm businesses. Our vision is an Iowa with healthy soil, healthy food, clean air, clean water, resilient farms and vibrant communities. To learn more, visit https://practicalfarmers.org.
