March 29, 2024

Kelley Announces funds to improve water quality

DES MOINES — State Rep. Dan Kelley of Newton has announced funds are now available to Iowa farmers utilizing conservation practices to help reduce fertilizer runoff into streams and rivers.

“During the 2013 session, we worked together on new ways to improve water quality, which includes providing farmers with the tools and support they need to implement steps to reduce nutrient losses,” Kelley said. “These funds will improve water quality across Iowa without putting the burden on local farmers.”

Farmers are eligible for a cost share rate for planting cover crops at $25 per acre and for farmers trying no-till or strip till at $10 per acre. Also, farmers using a nitrapyrin nitrification inhibitor when applying fall fertilizer can receive $3 per acre.

Iowans can contact their local Soil and Water Conservation District to apply.  Any farmer not already utilizing these practices can apply for this cost share assistance for up to 160 acres.