With Derek Franklin
Read MoreEdge-of-field (EOF) conservation practices—established on field boundaries, outside of productive cropland—are designed to help reach Iowa’s water quality goals, especially when paired with in-field practices. The “Giving Clean Water the Edge” infographic series dives into how EOF practices work, their positions on the landscape, their impacts on water quality, and the additional co-benefits that many EOF practices offer.
Read MoreWith Andrew Hillman
Read MoreConservation practices are crucial for sustainable agricultural production and the preservation of healthy ecosystems. These practices significantly enhance soil health, water quality, and biodiversity, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Edge-of-field (EOF) practices, such as saturated buffers, bioreactors, and water quality enhancement wetlands, play a pivotal role in improving water quality by effectively reducing nutrient loads and fostering wildlife habitats.
Read MoreWidespread adoption of edge-of-field (EOF) practices—such as saturated buffers, bioreactors, and water quality enhancement wetlands—is vital to achieving the goal of 45% nutrient reduction outlined in the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy. However, few farmers in the state have embraced EOF practices on their land—this project investigates why.
Read MoreWith Justin Meissen
Read MoreWith Andrew Rust
Read MoreWith Adam Janke
Read MoreIowa is home to a diverse array of wetland ecosystems that provide multiple benefits to humans and the natural world. These wetlands are essential for the survival of plants and animals adapted to life in a wet environment, including many rare and endangered species.
Read MoreLearn about the oxbow wetland restoration process with this toolkit.
Read MoreThis publication provides best management recommendations for farmers and landowners getting started with conservation and water quality practices by helping select and incorporate in-field and edge-of-field conservation practices most appropriate to the decision maker's land and preferences.
Read MoreRestoring oxbows can be a low cost way to improve water quality. Learn more in this publication from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.
Read MoreInformation on grade stabilization structures from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.
Read MoreLearn about sediment control basins in this 2-page report from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.
Read MoreLearn about the role farm ponds play in water quality in this quick read 2-page PDF.
Read MoreLearn about how conservation buffers affect water quality in this 4-page report by Iowa State University.
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