A tractor applies nitrogen to a corn field

Optimize Nitrogen Use Efficiency Using This New Tool

A new tool leveraging on-farm trial data helps Iowa farmers estimate optimal nitrogen application rates based on the unique needs of their fields. Using the web-based platform, farmers can explore trial results, understand how management and environment affect optimum nitrogen rates, and benchmark their own fields, improving their soil and their bottom line.

Cover crops

Warranty Pilot Program Limits Regenerative Agriculture Risks

Concerns about a potential economic hit have slowed adoption rates of regenerative ag practices like cover crops and rotational grazing among farmers and ranchers. But an innovative warranty pilot project in Iowa and the Chesapeake Bay area designed to limit risks could pave the way for a paradigm shift.

Farm that uses 4R Plus Practices

Poll Shows Majority of Iowa Farmers Influenced by 4R Plus Practices

The Iowa Farm and Rural Life poll shows a majority of farmers are being influenced by the 4R Plus program to adopt nutrient stewardship and conservation practices to help Iowa reach its nutrient reduction goals.

Michael Castellano, Professor of Agronomy at Iowa State University

Fertilizer Management in a Drought: Experts Sound the Alarm

The soil retains more nitrogen during a drought, leading to several management challenges. Learn why farmers are being encouraged to test soil before making fall fertilizer application decisions.

Iowa farmer Jason Russell

Eagerness to Learn Led to Changes in Nutrient Management

Linn County farmer Jason Russell’s eagerness to learn led to improvements in how he manages manure from his hog operation as a crop input.

On the Plus Side

Farmers See the Plus Side of Adding 4R Plus Practices

Farmers across Iowa see the Plus Side of weatherproofing farms, protecting their valuable soil, improving water quality and preserving productivity for future generations.

Asmus Featured Farmer

Ag Retail Key to Seeding 4R Plus Practices

Asmus Farm Supply encourages customers to adopt 4R Plus practices like zone fertility management, strip-till and cover crops, knowing soil health is key long term for farmers and farm suppliers.

Iowa Farmer Kellie Blair

Continual Improvement Leads Farm’s Stewardship Efforts

On the flat, tile-drained landscape, Webster County farmer Kellie Blair incorporates cover crops, no-till, strip-till and data-driven nutrient management to minimize nutrient losses from subsurface drainage.