Throughout our diverse agricultural landscapes, soil health is fundamental for productivity and sustainability. Beneath the surface, a variety of organisms, from microbes to fungi, collaborate to nourish and structure the soil. Learn key aspects of the pivotal role microbial diversity plays in fostering resilient agricultural ecosystems.

Field visits are a crucial part of the MRV process at the Soil and Water Outcomes Fund (SWOF). Learn how our verification process ensures compliance and accuracy while supporting farmers in implementing conservation practices.

This past December, I had the privilege of attending the inaugural Iowa Farmers of Color Conference at Jasper Winery in Des Moines, IA. This transformative event, spearheaded by Todd Western III and Shaffer Ridgeway with support from Practical Farmers of Iowa, exceeded all expectations.

The grant has also enabled the Midwest Climate-Smart Commodity Program to solidify multi-year relationships with farmers. For example, Nick Hermanson, who farms 5,000 acres of corn and soybeans and raises 300,000 turkeys a year on his farm in Story City, Iowa, is a fifth-generation farmer on the same land his family has farmed for 150 years.

As we gear up to open enrollment for 2024, we'd like to take a moment and celebrate the impressive growth and commitment to sustainable agriculture that the Soil and Water Outcomes achieved in 2023 with the help of our innovative farmers, hardworking staff, supporting partners, and local community advocates.

Discover the unparalleled advantages of integrating Cereal Rye into your cover cropping system. From erosion control to enhanced soil structure, this perennial choice can elevate your agricultural practices. Here we break down the essential timing and considerations required to manage this perennial cover crop effectively.

In September, the Iowa Soybean Association Board of Directors hosted a panel discussion with the Soil and Water Outcomes Fund (SWOF) on growing market opportunities for farmers from various private sector sustainability initiatives. Here we recap the second half of the discussion with several SWOF partner representatives on their expanding investments in regenerative agriculture.

In September, the Iowa Soybean Association Board of Directors hosted a panel discussion with the Soil and Water Outcomes Fund (SWOF) on growing market opportunities for farmers from various private sector sustainability initiatives. Hear from several SWOF partner representatives to speak on their expanding investments in regenerative agriculture.

En cada boletín electrónico perfilamos a un agricultor, un miembro del equipo de SWOF, un asociado, o algún otro afiliado de SWOF para conocer la contribución de ellos a nuestro programa. En esta edición, estamos destacando nuestra Rosemary Galdamez. Siga leyendo para aprender un poco más de Rosemary and como está trabajando para conectar con más agricultores en su posición de Coordinadora de Participación de Agricultores Históricamente Desatendidos.

Farming requires continuous learning and experimenting to drive additional value. As we celebrate National Farmer’s Day, we’d like to introduce Riley Schnell, a young Iowa farmer whose adoption of regenerative cropping practices has brought increased value to his family’s farming operation.