Cost Share Resources
Cost Share Options
There are state, federal and other financial assistance programs available for implementing 4R Plus nutrient stewardship, agronomic and conservation practices, including the Environmental Quality Incentives Program, the Conservation Stewardship Program, the Conservation Reserve Program through USDA NRCS, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship Water Quality Initiative, and others. You can also check with your county Soil and Water Conservation District office for more information on funding opportunities in your area.
Guide for Navigating Conservation Programs
Drake University Agriculture Law Center professors Neil Hamilton and Matt Russell have created this guide to help Iowa farmers and landowners use public programs to improve water quality and promote soil health on their farmland. It identifies key practices funded by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS), Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCD).
Private Cover Crop Cost Share Programs
Through private supply chain partnerships, Practical Farmers of Iowa is offering cost share programs. These programs are in addition to any publicly funded cover crop cost share you receive. Learn more about opportunities that may be available in your area.
Crop Insurance Discount Program
The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and partners worked with the USDA Risk Management Agency to establish this project aimed at expanding cover crops in Iowa. Eligible applications can receive up to $5 per acre for cover crops. Farmers are encouraged to wait to apply until their cover crop seeding has been completed.