Iowa Soybean Review, January, 2017

IOWA

SOYBEANreview

®

January 2017

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Iowa Soybean Association

Rob Stout, Iowa Soybean Association's 2017 Environmental Leader award winner, stands on one of many terraces he has constructed to help prevent soil erosion on his southeast Iowa farm. Stout also has a bioreactor and utilizes cover crops on his acres to prevent nutrient loss.

January 2017 | Vol. 29, No. 4

16

Penciling out Conservation

Productivity, profits and environmental performance are not mutually exclusive.

20 Small Practical

Steps Inventors and entrepreneurs are some of the most fascinating and creative people on earth.

24 Eating the

Elephant Reaching Iowa’s water quality goals.

30 Walk Before

You Run Water quality progress in Rathbun Lake. In life, sometimes you have to walk before you run and water quality improvement is no exception to this rule.

About the Cover:

Chris Hay, Iowa Soybean Association's senior environmental scientist, examines a bioreactor installed north of Ankeny recently. Farmers across Iowa are examining various conservation practices that can help them reduce nutrient loss and build soil health.

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Iowa Soybean Association

EXECUTIVE review Kirk Leeds Chief Executive Officer Iowa Soybean Association kleeds@iasoybeans.com Twitter@kirkleeds

Seeking Advocates For more than 50 years, the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) has been working to expand opportunities and deliver results for Iowa's soybean farmers. Even though the challenges faced by farmers have continued to evolve, the key to success has remained staying focused on helping farmers sell more soybeans and to produce more soybeans as efficiently and environmentally sustainable as possible.

Although the industry has some years that are better than others, the long-term trend has been upward and positive.

The soybean industry is clearly stronger than it was 50 years ago because of the efforts of the Iowa Soybean Association and the thousands of farmers who have been advocates on behalf of the soybean industry in Iowa and across the country.

But what does it mean to be an "advocate?"

The dictionary defines an advocate as "a person who publicly supports or recommends a particular cause or policy." Synonyms include such words as champion, supporter, backer, promoter, proponent, spokesperson, crusader and booster. All sound like great ways to describe the farmer members and leaders that I have had the pleasure of working for over all these years. Volunteers fully committed to advocating for all soybean farmers in the state.

President Rolland Schnell, Newton | D5 President Elect Bill Shipley, Nodaway | D7 Treasurer Lindsay Greiner, Keota | At Large Secretary Randy Souder, Rockwell City | D4 Executive Committee Stephanie Essick, Dickens | At Large

Directors Mark Vosika, Pocahontas | D1 Chuck White, Spencer | D1 April Hemmes, Hampton | D2 Wayne Fredericks, Osage | D2 Rick Juchems, Plainfield | D3 Suzanne Shirbroun, Farmersburg | D3 LaVerne Arndt, Sac City | D4 Morey Hill, Madrid | D5 Dave Walton, Wilton | D6 Robb Ewoldt, Blue Grass | D6 Jeff Jorgenson, Sidney | D7 Randy Miller, Lacona | D8 Warren Bachman, Osceola | D8 Pat Swanson, Ottumwa | D9 Mark Jackson, Rose Hill | D9 Brent Renner, Klemme | At Large Tim Bardole, Rippey | At Large

To reflect the increasing number of farmers, consumers, conservationists and other individuals and organizations that ISA is attracting to the association and its many programs and activities, the Board of Directors has completely revamped what we used to call our "membership program." In fact, its been replaced with an effort focused on increasing engagement with those who choose to support our organization as advocates.

As an ISA Advocate, you'll continue to be encouraged to financially support the many efforts of ISA that can not be funded by checkoff dollars. We're also asking you to become a champion, supporter, backer, proponent, spokesperson, crusader and booster for the important work that we are engaged in. Importantly, this need for advocates extends beyond just farmers. We need to involve others who may not grow soybeans, but support our shared goals. As the number of farmers declines, having advocates beyond the farm gate is becoming more critical.

Join us in these efforts by becoming an Advocate.

To learn more, give me a call or send me an email.

I would be proud to have you join us in this journey as an ISA Advocate.

American Soybean Association Directors Morey Hill, Madrid Wayne Fredericks, Osage Brian Kemp, Sibley John Heisdorffer, Keota Dean Coleman, Humboldt United Soybean Board Directors Delbert Christensen, Audubon Larry Marek, Riverside Tom Oswald, Cleghorn April Hemmes, Hampton

For advertising information in the Iowa Soybean Review, please contact Larson Ent. LLC, (515)440-2810 or dave@larsonent.com.

Comments and statewide news articles should be sent to the above address. Advertising space reservations must be made by the first day of the month preceding publication. In consideration of the acceptance of the advertisement, the agency and the advertiser must, in respect of the contents of the advertisement, indemnify and save the publisher harmless against any expense arising from claims or actions against the publisher because of the publication of the content of the advertisement.

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Staff Credits Editor | Ann Clinton Communications Director | Aaron Putze, APR Creative Manager | Ashton Boles Photographer | Joe Murphy Staff Writer | Carrie Laughlin Staff Writer | Matthew Wilde Staff Writer | Dorothy Tate Staff Writer | Allison Arp Staff Writer | Michelle Jones Staff Writer | Easton Kuboushek Sales Director | David Larson The Iowa Soybean Review is published eight times a year by: Iowa Soybean Association 1255 SW Prairie Trail Parkway, Ankeny, Iowa 50023 Phone: (515) 251-8640 Web address: iasoybeans.com E-mail: aclinton@iasoybeans.com

Iowa Soybean Association can also be found on these sites:

FCSAMERICA .COM

John Heilman Soybean & Beef Producer Cushing, IA View his story at: fcsamerica.com/johnheilman

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CAROL BALVANZ, ISA Policy Director

Moving Things Forward

By Carol Balvanz, Policy Director All summer and fall, we’ve been talking with legislators about what it will take to “move things forward” on water quality. As you may remember, during the last legislative session, there were at least three proposals to find “long-term, significant funding” to support water quality efforts, none of which gained enough votes to pass. The Iowa Soybean Association supported all three ideas, and would have supported a hybrid of any of them if the resulting legislation might have created the opportunity to realize a “long-term, significant funding” source.

As we near the 2017 Legislative Session, we have some new realities to deal with. First, the legislature has a decidedly different complexion from last year.

With Republicans in charge of both houses as well as the Governor’s office, chances for any support of a tax increase are very low. We’ve also been told by the Governor’s office and by legislative leaders that revenue estimates keep declining, making the prospects for finding long-term, significant funding even more difficult.

Still, ISA’s work with farmers will continue, working within watersheds to strategically locate nitrate reducing practices of bioreactors, buffers, drainage water management and wetlands. We have found farmers have the greatest success when they work as part of a watershed plan. Legislators often ask

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us, “If we do find significant funding for water quality efforts, where will you start?”

The answer lies in moving forward with watershed planning. Those plans include all the practices listed above along with cover crops and other agronomic innovations. When we’ve shown legislators plans that have worked, such as the Rock Creek Watershed in northern Iowa, they understand that the money goes further when there’s a collaborative plan in place. ISA has worked on these plans in the past, and we will continue to, even if the legislature doesn’t come up with a comprehensive plan.

Our biggest job this year is to figure out the best way to generate and maintain the needed state funding in a year when state revenues are down, new taxes aren’t likely and farmers have less available cash flow. The legislation you see this year may not resemble the bills we saw last year. We will need you on “Hill Visit Wednesdays” to help make them better. If you join us, we can keep watershed planning and innovative ideas in front of legislators the entire session. We can show them what farmers have done over the past 15 years. We can help them understand how we could multiply those efforts and results across the state with the right “long-term sustainable funding” package. We hope to see you soon in the rotunda.

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ISA HERALDS BRANDSTAD NOMINATION AS U.S. AMBASSADOR TO CHINA Iowa and U.S. agriculture will be among the many beneficiaries of Gov. Terry Branstad’s selection as U.S. ambassador to China, say Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) leaders.

“His enduring relationship with the people of China, forged over many years of conversation and joint participation in activities here at home and abroad, will advance strong China-U.S. relations at a critical time for both countries,” says ISA Chief Operating Officer Karey Claghorn.

The governor and Iowa soybean farmers have long recognized the strategic and significant role China plays for U.S. agriculture. The country of nearly 1.4 billion people purchases nearly 60 percent of global soybean production.

About one of every three rows of soybeans grown in Iowa are destined for China.

“Food is essential for life and trade relations forged with the people of China by Branstad and soybean farmers will serve both countries well as we begin this new chapter in U.S.-Chinese relations,” Claghorn says.

Having been raised on a farm and served Iowans as the state’s chief executive during the depths of the farm crisis, Claghorn says he has a unique understanding of what makes rural America tick.

“He will draw from these experiences to serve all Americans as ambassador.”

ISA President Rolland Schnell of Newton says Branstad’s appointment “can only mean good things” for farmers.

“While China is a tremendous market, there’s opportunity for growth. Stronger relationships are key to building greater trust in the American farmer and the quality soybeans we grow.”

Schnell says the association also looks forward to working with the governor to expedite the approval process of new seed traits and technologies with China.

“The ability to use effective new tools enable farmers to enhance productivity on each acre to the benefit of human well-being and the environment. This is good for the people of both countries.”

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REGISTER NOW! isafarmnet.com 2 01 7

F E B R UA RY 7- 8 | I OWA E V E N T S C E N T E R

More to Your Field Than Yield T U E S DAY, F E B . 7

1:00-5:00 p.m. — Mega Issues Discussion Digital Ag | Landowner-Operator Conversations Monarch and Pollinator Habitat | Weed Resistance

5:00-8:00 p.m. — Dinner and Networking

W E D N E S DAY, F E B . 8

7:30 a.m. — “Farmer-style” Breakfast 8:00 a.m. — Conference Welcome and Kickoff Speaker 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. — Research Breakout Sessions On-Farm Network® trial results | Cropping systems | Nutrient reduction strategy Water quality and water management | Resistance management CEU credits available for Certified Crop Advisers. Conference Registration: $175.

Register at isafarmnet.com

Certified Crop Adviser Continuing Education Units applied through American Society of Agronomy.

Funded in part by the soybean checkoff.

A

s soybean farmers, we are continuously looking for better ways to improve our farming operations and helping us do that is the goal of the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA). Each year, your association organizes a research conference to assist you in achieving that goal.

It always has been my experience to come home with good, sound, research-backed information to apply on my operation.

The ISA research teams will present the latest information designed to help you be more competitive now and in the future. Tuesday, Feb. 7 will focus on mega issues including digital agriculture, landowner-operator conversations, monarch and pollinator habitat and weed resistance followed by dinner and time for networking.

The second day, Feb. 8, will include presentations on conservation drainage, crop health, cover crops, soil and water quality, on-farm research results and new technology.

Many subjects affecting your operation will be covered.

You will have opportunities to learn not only from university and ISA researchers but also talk with fellow farmers to learn from their experiences. Put these dates on your schedule. This conference is not designed to sell you something, but help you on your farm. I guarantee there will be information for you whether you are a 100-acre farmer, a 10,000-acre farmer, or somewhere in between.

ROLLAND SCHNELL, ISA President

M

ark your calendars, get registered and plan to attend the annual ISA Research Conference on Feb. 7 and 8, 2017, at the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines, Iowa! This year’s conference theme is “More to Your Field Than Yield”.

As always, the ISA Research Conference will highlight research done by our On-Farm Network®, Environmental Programs and Services and Analytics teams, as well as many of the important research programs funded by Iowa soybean farmers’ checkoff dollars at Iowa State University, other state universities and with our many industry partners. Every year, our research teams enjoy the opportunity to talk with farmers and to share data and information about how your checkoff dollars are being leveraged with other investments to bring value to your farming operations and agribusinesses.

While we hope those participating in many facets of agriculture attend, our primary focus is on you, the farmer.

At ISA, we know who we work for and everything we do is intended to increase the competitiveness of Iowa’s soybean farmers through continuous improvement of productivity, profitability and sustainability. Farmers attending this premier research conference will learn about on-farm production and conservation research that will benefit their farming operations immediately and in the future.

We hope to see you at the 2017 ISA Research Conference and encourage you to bring a friend!

ED ANDERSON, Ph.D., ISA Senior Director of Research

T

he 2017 ISA Research Conference featuring the Iowa Soybean Association Research teams — Analytics, Environmental Programs and Services and On-Farm Network® — is right around the corner!

This year’s conference will help farmers discover there is “More to Your Field Than Yield” with two exciting days focused on the latest production and conservation topics in the industry. Farmers, landowners and agronomists will gain valuable information on agronomic and environmental practices to help make informed decisions.

T U E S DAY, F E B . 7

1:00-5:00 p.m. — Mega Issues Discussion New opportunities in digital agriculture

Matt Darr, Iowa State University

Landowner-operator conversations

Steve Bruere, Peoples Company

Importance of monarch habitat conservation

Kraig McPeek, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Weed resistance management

Amy Asmus, Asmus Farm Supply

5:00-6:00 p.m. — Networking Reception 6:00-8:00 p.m. — Dinner Program

A QUICK LOOK AT THE I SA

ATTE ND E E S

500+

projected farmers and agronomists

VE NU E

IOWA EVENTS CENTER

Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center

EXHI B

35+ in

W E D N E S DAY, F E B . 8

7:30 a.m. -4:30 p.m. — Research Breakout Sessions More than 35 presentations including:

Using seed treatments to manage seedling diseases

Alison Robertson, ISU

Identifying high yield soybean production factors using on-farm demonstrations

Dan Poston, DuPont Pioneer

Cover crop effect on the microbiome

Gwyn Beattie, ISU

What to do with your water data

Adam Kiel, ISA

Efficiency and cost considerations of nutrient reduction strategy practices

Chris Hay, ISA

Soil applied insecticide results

Brett McArtor, ISA

Imagery analysis of corn nitrogen status

Anthony Martin, ISA

Use of controlled drainage and sub-irrigation in soybean production

Kelly Nelson, University of Missouri

FARMER PANEL: Advantages of participating in watershed planning efforts

Moderator: Diane Ercse, ISA

R E G I ST E R N OW !

isafarmnet.com R E S E A R C H CO N F E R E N C E

# I TO RS

n 2016

E D U C AT IO N

35+ research breakout sessions 4 mega issue discussions 45+ research and industry experts 25+ potential CCA CEUs

@IowaSoybeans @OnFarmNetworkIA @ISA_EPS

S O C IAL

# I SA R C 1 7 Follow us on Twitter for live conference updates

HEISDORFFER ELECTED AMERICAN SOYBEAN ASSOCIATION VICE PRESIDENT John Heisdorffer of Keota was recently elected vice president of the American Soybean Association (ASA).

The former Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) president (2008-09) and director grows soybeans and corn and manages a feeder-to-finish pig operation.

“It’s humbling and overwhelming all at the same time, but mostly overwhelming,” says Heisdorffer, a five-year veteran of the ASA board. “It’s always difficult to describe the feeling you have when your peers and fellow directors place that kind of trust in you.”

Farming has always been in his blood — Heisdorffer will plant his 47th crop next spring.

His leadership on behalf of the soybean industry began with an invitation nearly 25 years ago. Heisdorffer was serving on the Famers Coop (Keota) board of directors when the ISA came calling.

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“I thought that was quite a jump in leadership — to go from my local coop board to a state commodity board — but was open to the challenge,” he says. “Perhaps I agreed because I didn’t think my odds were too great. But I was elected and serving the soybean industry has opened one door after another.

“It’s also provided the opportunity to share ideas and learn from other farmers,” Heisdorffer adds. “You have some of the best farmers and thinkers on these types of boards. So to have the chance to network with these people not only improves the industry but your own operation.”

The ASA, he says, is the champion of the soybean farmer in Washington D.C. “As individual farmers, we can’t always be there to advocate on topics like the farm bill and the impact mergers and acquisitions may have on our operations. The ASA can be that voice, have the conversations and make the impact that perhaps we can’t do — and may not have the time to do — as individuals.”

John and his wife Deanna are the parents of three grown children: Lisa, Jody and Chris. They also have seven grandchildren.

FARMER DELEGATES RATIFY ISA POLICY AT ASSOCIATION’S ANNUAL MEETING DEC. 15 Farmers serving as Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) delegates largely reaffirmed existing policy while tweaking language pertaining to cover crops, pollinator habitat and taxation during the association’s annual meeting and policy conference held Dec. 15 in Ankeny.

Delegates from all regions of the state called on the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources and Conservation Service to establish and enforce a seed inspection and certification policy. It’s needed, they agreed, to ensure that seed used for cost share habitat and cover crop programs is free from noxious weeds.

“The policy reinforces the importance of applying conservation practices that first do no harm,” says Roger Wolf, director of ISA’s Environmental Programs and Services. “Conversation needs to work in our production system.”

Delegates also agreed that as Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) contracts expire, future CRP and pollinator agreements should focus only on sensitive

your

lands. They voiced support for current federal policy allowing haying and grazing of CRP ground in exchange for a reduced rental payment.

Overall, the delegate session was void of contention or lengthy deliberations. That wasn’t surprising to ISA President Rolland Schnell.

“Soybean farmers are diligent and do considerable work in advance of the meeting,” he says. “The process starts with farmers gathering in small groups around the state and having discussions. They make sure existing policy is updated and add language that keeps our resolutions current.”

Carol Balvanz, ISA policy director, was also pleased with the meeting’s outcome.

“The participation and input of farmers is what makes the policy process successful and we are very grateful to all of our delegates,” she says. “Priorities for 2017 will be finalized in January as we look forward to kicking off the new legislative session.”

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soybean processor

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Investing Checkoff Dollars

Arvin Vos, farmer from Pella

Penciling out Conservation

By Matthew Wilde

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Investing Checkoff Dollars

P

roductivity, profits and environmental performance are not mutually exclusive.

Proving it to farmers and landowners may be the key to meeting the goals of the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy, according to Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) experts and members and environmental leaders.

To address water quality issues, the state initiated the strategy in 2013. It’s a science-based initiative to reduce nitrate and phosphorous loads entering Iowa waterways by 45 percent from point and nonpoint sources.

Conservation practices outlined in the strategy farmers and landowners can implement include cover crops, nitrogen management, conservation tillage (no-still, strip till), bioreactors, wetland restoration and saturated buffers, among others.

Not all practices provide an economic return, like bioreactors, but others do. Sometimes the payoff is immediate. Sometimes it’s gradual.

“There are win-win options for farmers,” says Sean McMahon, executive director of the Iowa Agriculture Water Alliance (IAWA) based at the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) in Ankeny. “There are certain practices that help improve resource use efficiency and profitability.”

IAWA was created in August of 2014 by ISA, Iowa Corn Growers Association and the Iowa Pork Producers Association to increase the pace and scale of farmer-led efforts to improve water quality.

Great progress is being made, according to McMahon. At a time of low commodity prices, he says convincing farmers to invest more in conservation isn’t always easy.

“Demonstrating it’s in their own economic self-interest to adopt certain practices is incredibly important,” McMahon adds.

Here are four conservation practices ISA experts believe will improve the economic and environmental performance of farms.

Cover crops

Planting cereal rye, tillage radishes, oats and other cover crops is a critical

Sean McMahon,

executive director of IAWA

component of the strategy. The plants extend biological activity between harvest and planting, control erosion, sequester nutrients, build organic matter and suppress weeds.

According to strategy documents, cover crops reduce nitrate concentrations in water leaving farm fields by 28 percent to more than 40 percent.

Nearly 475,000 acres of cover crops were planted in Iowa last year, according to Practical Farmers of Iowa estimates, up from less than 10,000 in 2009. Though acres are on the rise, cost — anywhere from $25 to $50 per acre depending on seed, application and burndown method — is still an obstacle for some.

Nathan Paul, ISA OnFarm Network® operations manager, believes it won’t be in the future. The Nathan Paul On-Farm Network conducts cover crop replicated strip trials studying soil health and erosion control benefits, among other things.

“You will see a pretty consistent benefit in a few years,” Paul says.

A U.S. Department of Agriculture cover crop economics case study in Missouri last year shows adding cover crops to a corn-soybean rotation may

cost farmers money initially but their investment will pay off handsomely in the long run.

The study shows a net loss of about $10 per acre for the first 10 years as costs outweigh benefits. But over time, yield gains, erosion mitigation and input reductions pay off. Cover crops add more than $38 per acre in years 11-20 to the bottom line and nearly $85 per acre in years 21-30.

“It wisely shows the return and rewards that you receive for your upfront costs, patience and commitment for establishing cover crops,” Paul says.

Arvin Vos, an ISA farmer member from Pella, is a believer. He seeded 4,000 acres of cover crops after harvest, which includes all of his acres and custom work.

Vos says two customers claim their soybean yields increased 8-10 bushels per acre due to cover crops.

His beans averaged well over 60 bushels per acre.

“They had me drill everything this year instead of splitting fields. That tells me they weren’t pulling my leg,” Vos says. “There’s tremendous value holding nutrients in place and building organic matter. Cover crops will save you money.” [ Continued on page 18 ]

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Investing Checkoff Dollars

[ Continued from page 17 ]

No-till, strip till

Eliminating or reducing tillage will save money and help the environment, according to Iowa State University (ISU) Extension statistics and conservation experts.

“When you’re not running equipment across the field there’s a value,” says Heath Ellison, ISA Environmental Programs and Services (EPS) operations manager.

According to the 2016 ISU Extension Iowa Farm Custom Rate Survey, it costs: • $16.45 per acre to chisel plow • $11.85 per acre to chop cornstalks • $14.05 per acre to field cultivate • $23.15 per acre for V-ripping with tandem disk Some farmers do one or more of these practices to prepare ground for planting. Ellison says there are times and circumstances when tillage is needed, such as reducing soil compaction, weed control or helping ground dry and warm up faster.

But tillage comes with consequences. It’s expensive and soil is more prone to erosion.

“We’re not anti-tillage, but we’re all about optimizing systems, improving efficiencies and taking steps to address resource issues,” Ellison says.

According to the Iowa Department of Agriculture, changing from conventional tillage to strip till or no-till limits nutrient runoff, improves water quality and reduces production costs. Soil structure and water infiltration improves and organic matter accumulates.

ISU studies show economic returns are as good or better for no-till corn and soybeans compared to conventional tillage in most instances.

The latest government statistics show an increase of no-till acres in Iowa from about 800,000 in 1987 to more than 7 million in 2012.

“No-Till” Tom Oswald of Cleghorn switched to a no-till, strip till system for soybeans and corn, respectively, more than two decades ago. The ISA past president’s nickname is a clear indication of his support for the practice.

He may look at tillage equipment at farm shows, but only out of curiosity.

“For me, less tillage means less horse power and equipment in the yard … and less soil loss,” Oswald says.

“Driving a tractor does not make you money, and it’s not my definition of a good life. If I can make my life better by doing less tillage and improve water quality at the same time … that’s cool.”

Tom Oswald,

farmer from Cleghorn

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Profitability mapping

Profitability mapping can help farmers locate unprofitable areas in fields and turn money pits into money makers while improving the environment.

At a time of low commodity prices and heightened attention on water quality, ISA’s Adam Kiel recommends farmers and landowners analyze every acre.

“It makes perfect sense to use spatial yield data in combination with expenses and inputs to look at profit or loss on a smaller unit than the farm or field,” says Kiel, EPS operations manager. “The areas that are consistently losing money are typically the areas losing the greatest amount of nutrients. By taking those areas out of production, that’s good for farmers and society.”

According to Ag Solver, an agronomic data and simulation company located in Ames, 3 to 15 percent of every field is consistently unprofitable. An ISA study of 8,500 acres in the prairie pothole part of the state from 2006-14 shows pothole areas of a field were much less profitable than upland areas. In fact, pothole areas lost more than $32 per acre most years.

By taking unproductive acres out of production and enrolling those in the Conservation Reserve Program,

Investing Checkoff Dollars

Heath Ellison,

GRASSED WATERWAY:

ISA EPS operations manager

Areas within fields that are maintained in grass to address areas of concentrated water flow.

Grass waterways prevent soil erosion and associated phosphorus loss.

pollinator habitat or other government conservation programs, landowners can be paid for doing it.

“Farmers could see the pendulum shift from possibly losing $300 per acre to getting a rental payment of $300 per acre,” McMahon says.

ISA member Mark Mueller of Waverly plans to do a sub-field analysis of all his acres.

He says profit maps will show the benefits of soil conservation and water quality practices that will greatly speed up their adoption.

“Putting pencil to paper would help many farmers calculate that some acres aren’t worth the time and expense to farm,” Mueller says.

Nitrogen management

Applying nitrogen to corn at the right time, right rate, right form and right place can save farmers money while maintaining or improving yields.

It’s also good for the environment.

ISA’s On-Farm Network conducts nitrogen management replicated strip trials to help farmers accomplish both.

“We’re working to help farmers evaluate and optimize nitrogen use,” says Peter Kyveryga, Ph.D., ISA Research Analytics director. “Nitrogen mismanagement can definitely increase the risk of economic yield loss and the risk of nitrate leaving the field through drainage tiles.”

According to strategy documents: • Moving from fall to spring-applied nitrogen will reduce nitrate loss by 6 percent.

• Spring pre-plant/sidedress 40-60 split nitrogen application compared to fall-applied reduces nitrate loss by 5 percent.

• Sidedress application compared to pre-plant reduces nitrate loss by 7 percent.

• The maximum return to nitrogen rate reduces nitrate loss by 10 percent.

McMahon says farmers are adopting nitrogen management practices such as variable rate application, sidedressing, split application, nitrogen stabilizers and others.

“That is really going gang busters across Iowa,” he says. “Farmers recognize if more fertilizer is used by the crop there’s less runoff. That will improve profitability and water quality.”

ISA member Shayne Kogel of Emmetsburg is participating in On-Farm Network replicated strip trials testing form and timing of fall anhydrous ammonia versus spring UAN at matching rates.

He wants to apply the right form of nitrogen in the right amount at the right time on corn for optimum economic returns that won’t hurt the environment.

ISU estimates nitrogen costs this year at 40 cents per pound.

According to Verdesian Life Sciences, a plant health company based in North Carolina, every pound of nitrogen lost represents a monetary loss to a farmer of about $4 per acre in fertilizer and yield.

“With expenses (and commodity prices) now, you have to pinch pennies,” Kogel says. “We want to save money without sacrificing yield.

And we don’t want to put anything in the water that shouldn’t be there.”

There’s tremendous value holding

nutrients in place and building organic

”

matter. Cover crops will save you money.

— Arvin Vos, farmer from Pella

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Small Practical Steps

By Easton Kuboushek

I

COVER CROPS: Various crops grown between the harvest and planting of commercial row crops to reduce nitrogen loss through plant uptake, phosphorus loss through reduced soil erosion, and to build soil organic matter.

nventors and entrepreneurs are some of the most fascinating and creative people on earth. They have an uncanny way of looking at problems as opportunities and derive solutions through innovation.

Successful entrepreneurs say the key to success doesn’t come from a massive leap or stroke of luck. It comes from planning, hard work and most importantly — taking small practical steps.

Farmers are arguably some of the best entrepreneurs and creative problem solvers in the world. And they are certainly hard workers. Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) believes it’s time to put that tenacity to work and take small practical steps to improving Iowa’s water quality.

“Whether we like to admit it or not, everything we do affects somebody downstream,” says Rob Stout, farmer from Washington. “We as farmers are part of the problem and I feel very strongly that we all have a role to play — we all need to step up to the plate.”

Stout and his stepson are conservation farmers operating 1,100 acres of corn and soybeans and raising 10,000 head of hogs in southeast Iowa. He currently implements a number of conservation practices — no-till, cover crops, terraces, buffer strips and a bioreactor — but it didn’t happen overnight.

Stouts journey to conservation success began in the early 1980’s with some heavy rain and a little heartache.

"We saw some heavy spring rains and had some soil washout," Stout recalls. "You know, it hurts to see that.

I knew that even though we were doing conservation tillage at the time that it wasn't enough.”

Stout took the first small step to solving his problem: learning about potential solutions. At the time, the practice of no-till was just coming into the farming scene.

"Washington County was really on board with no-till," Stout says. "I went to a couple field days and liked what I saw.”

Stout switched his farm to no-till in 1983 and a few years later, was hosting no-till field days of his own.

He continues to implement the practice today.

After starting with one practice, Stout built on his success with additional ones. He built terraces, waterways and buffer strips in the late 1980's and nearly a decade ago began dabbling with cover crops.

Don't be afraid to ask questions. You don't have to make every mistake other farmers have made.

”

— Rob Stout, Washington

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"I think we started with 10 acres the first year,” Stout recalls. “Now we cover all but 20 acres with cereal rye, peas and radishes.”

Stout is in the eighth year of a 10-year cover crop study with Practical Farmers of Iowa (PFI) and Iowa Learning Farms. The remaining 20 acres are reserved as check strips to establish a baseline for the study.

Cover crops required more than just education for Stout. He recommends finding a trusted expert and other farmers to increase the chances of success.

Stout utilized his local Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) office as a 'one stop shop' for information on practices, projects and cost-share opportunities.

"Some counties are different but it's important to find a partner you trust,” Stout says. “There are people who have successfully done it so don't be afraid to ask questions — you don't have to make every mistake other farmers have made."

Iowa State University Extension and experts at the ISA also make excellent resources. Heath Ellison, operations manager of agriculture and natural resources on the ISA Environmental Programs and Services (EPS) team, emphasizes another set of eyes can be very beneficial.

"Try to find someone who can come in and help you see where you're at," Ellison says. "Start

with that baseline assessment and get a third party looking at the operation— it's always a beneficial conversation."

Ellison and the EPS team work on water quality projects, many in collaboration with the NRCS, across the state.

“Often times, I’ll talk with farmers and we’ll find something we’re not ready to act upon — but at least we know where we stand,” Ellison says.

“From there, we can build a plan and start organizing resources.”

Stout added working with neighbors can be a good solution to organizing the necessary resources, especially equipment. He rents out his drill to a few local farmers so they can plant cover crops.

"You don't have to invest $50,000 dollars to get started. Hire somebody to do a field for you or do what you can," Stout says. "There's somebody who will be willing to do that — it just might take a little effort to find them."

Stout’s work in conservation earned him the ISA Environmental Leader Award for 2017. And while his success and scope of sustainable practices is notable, he believes it’s nothing other farmers can’t replicate.

In fact, he encourages it.

"These are things any farmer can do to save our soil and make the water cleaner,” Stout says. “Start small and work your way into it — we've got to do our part.”

7 Steps to Incorporating Conservation STEP 1: Education

• Attend field days or the ISA Research Conference • Read and research through trusted resources • Visit county Extension, NRCS or Soil and Water Conservation District offices

STEP 2: Find an Expert

• Who can help me be successful?

Are there farmers near me?

• Identify and connect with a thirdparty expert • Don't be afraid to ask questions

STEP 3: Get an Assessment

• What practices will work on my farm?

• Have your expert look at your operation and identify which practices will work best • Set a baseline to build upon

STEP 4: Build a strategy

• What's the first small, practical step?

How can I get there?

• What barriers do I have to adoption?

How can I overcome them?

• Establish short term and long term goals

STEP 5: Organize Resources • What resources do I need for implementation?

• Identify equipment, financial, seed and other resources • Identify cost-share opportunities

STEP 6: Implementation

• Time to take action and implement your strategy • Take small practical steps • How will you measure progress? (i.e. water monitoring or stalk sampling) • Track what works and what doesn't work

STEP 7: Evaluate & Repeat

• What worked well? What didn't?

• What adjustments do I need to make next year?

• Repeat and grow one small step at a time

J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 7 | I A S OY B E A N S . C O M | 2 1

Investing Checkoff Dollars

Chris Hay

How Much Nitrogen Reduction Does

125 Million Buy?

$

By Chris Hay, senior environmental scientist

I

owans are having an intense debate about funding for water quality.

Calls for additional public funding for the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy (INRS) beg the question, “What can the public expect in return for their water quality investment?”

Current initial cost estimates range from $1-$4 billion to reach Iowa’s nutrient reduction goals, and a stable, continuous funding source is needed to make meaningful progress toward those goals.

Based on the discussion, an additional $125 million is considered a realistic annual appropriation to support planning, technical assistance, practice financing and project staff — essential elements to achieve incremental water quality improvements.

To determine what public investment in water quality would buy, the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) Environmental Programs and Services (EPS) team undertook an exercise to quantify what $125 million would provide in terms of nitrogen load reductions from agricultural land in Iowa.

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The INRS served as the basis for this exercise, and for any exercise like this, several assumptions must be made. One key assumption is the portfolio of water quality practices that will be used.

For this exercise, we used one of the example scenarios from the INRS that would achieve the 41 percent nitrogen reduction goal from nonpoint sources. The chosen scenario assumes: • Cover crops used on 60 percent of corn and soybean acres • Wetlands treat runoff from 27 percent of all agricultural land • Edge-of-field practices (bioreactors and saturated buffers) treat the drainage from 60 percent of areas with subsurface drainage Another assumption is where practices are installed. Areas across the state have different loading rates for nitrogen, thus the impact of practices will be greater in areas with higher loading rates. For maximum efficiency, we assumed initial investments would be directed toward areas with the

greatest nitrogen loads — specifically areas in north central and northeast Iowa (Figure 1).

Cost breakdown

The INRS provides the overall framework for water quality improvement, but each individual watershed is unique. Watershed planning allows local stakeholders to decide the best way to carry out the strategy in their watershed.

A detailed plan helps watershed stakeholders efficiently allocate available funds to maximize benefits per dollar invested. Watershed planning will be key to scaling up the INRS by increasing

FIGURE 1. Target region for initial water quality investments.

Investing Checkoff Dollars

Category

Cost

Number

Total Public Cost

Watershed plans

$25,000/plan

40 plans

$1,000,000

Administrative staff

$75,000/person

20 staff

$1,500,000

Field staff

$60,000/person

40 staff

$2,400,000

Cover crops

$25/acre

556,160 ac.

$13,904,000

Wetlands

$150,000

280

$42,000,000

Bioreactors

$12,500

4,377

$54,712,500

Saturated buffers

$6,500

1,459

$9,483,500

Total

$125,000,000

TABLE 1. Sample allocation of $125 million public investment in water quality practices based

on example scenario from the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy using current cost share rates for cover crops and estimated costs for other categories.

Practice

Nitrogen Reduction

Nitrogen Removed (tons)

SATURATED BUFFER: A water level control structure is installed near the outlet of a tile line, but within or immediately

Cover crops

1.6%

2,477

Wetlands

1.3%

2,013

Bioreactors

0.9%

1,393

Saturated buffers

0.3%

464

of the water is diverted

Total

4.1%

6,347

into a tile line parallel to

adjacent to an existing stream buffer. A portion

the stream and within the TABLE 2. Nitrogen reduction from the example $125 million investment in water quality

practices for the target region based on estimated practice numbers and data from the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy science assessment.

buffer. Excess nitrate in the tile flow is converted to harmless nitrogen gas

implementation efficiency. For this exercise, we chose a goal of 40 watershed plans per year for watersheds ranging from 10,000 to 40,000 acres in size at a total cost of $1 million.

Implementing a water quality program of this size will take additional administrative and field staff to provide project and contract management as well as work at the local level to identify potential practice sites and work with farmers to implement the practices. We assumed 60 full-time staff at a cost of $3.9 million.

The remaining $120.1 million would be spent on design and implementation of water quality practices. Cover crops, wetlands, bioreactors and saturated buffers were included in the portfolio of practices based on current cost-share rates or estimated costs (Table 1).

Expected water quality results We can then estimate the impact of these practices on nitrogen reduction using the INRS science assessment.

From the INRS, average nitrate-nitrogen reductions for the practices are: • 31 percent for rye cover crops

• 52 percent for treatment wetlands • 43 percent for woodchip bioreactors • 50 percent for saturated buffers Based on the practice numbers calculated above and their expected nitrogen reduction performance, this example results in a 4.1 percent reduction or 6,347 tons of nitrogen removed within the targeted region (Table 2). This represents one-tenth of the overall nitrogen reduction goal of 41 percent from nonpoint sources within this region.

At the state level, 6,347 tons of nitrogen removed would be a 2.1 percent reduction. This is onetwentieth of the of the overall statewide goal for nonpoint sources.

We’ve attempted only to estimate potential public investment at the state level, but it’s important to recognize that federal and private investment will need to be involved as well. For instance, we’ve assumed the federal cost-share will cover half of the wetland costs as with current programs. Individual farmers will need to cover the additional costs of implementing cover crops and other nutrient management practices as

in the soil of the stream buffer due to organic matter and low oxygen.

well as the costs of managing edge-offield practices.

It’s also important to note the investments have different lifetimes.

Cover crops are an annual practice that will require recurring investments.

Wetlands and edge-of-field practices have large up-front costs but longer lifetimes — approximately 10-15 years for bioreactors, 75 years for saturated buffers and 150 years for wetlands.

A 2.1 percent nitrogen reduction — one-twentieth of the statewide goal — for a $125 million investment helps illustrate the scale of the challenge and the magnitude of the cost needed to achieve the nutrient reduction goals. It would bring us one step closer to the goal. However, it will take stable and continuous funding over several decades to reach the finish line.

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Eating the Elephant Reaching Iowa’s Water Quality Goals

By Michelle Jones

H

ow do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.

Eating an entire elephant is a daunting task for any one person — just as transforming water quality is to Iowans. The end goal is simple, but getting there is complex. However, when the goal is broken down into “bite size” pieces, it’s much more manageable.

The Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy set a statewide goal to reduce both nitrogen and phosphorus loads by 45 percent, which is distributed between point and nonpoint sources. Of that total, nonpoint sources — mainly agriculture — have the responsibility to reduce nitrogen loss by 41 percent and phosphorus loss by 29 percent.

Looking at this from a statewide view is like trying to eat an elephant in one bite. Yet, progress is possible when approached from a more feasible scale, such as the HUC-12 level — the smallest watershed scale, ranging in size from 10,000-40,000 acres.

Iowa has about 1,600 HUC-12 watersheds, which can be likened to neighborhoods. Each is small enough to identify the unique characteristics of the watershed, such as existing land and water quality conditions, and to monitor progress. At this scale, watershed leaders and farmers can work together to develop a plan of action — known as a watershed plan.

“A watershed plan provides a roadmap for water and soil improvements,” says Adam Kiel, Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) operations manager of water resources.

The ISA Environmental Programs and Services (EPS) team has worked in several watersheds across the state to develop these plans, including Rock Creek, Miller Creek, Benton-Tama, Lime Creek and Cedar Creek.

During the planning process, farmers, landowners, community members and other stakeholders provide input to identify and prioritize goals,

such as water quality, production and habitat. Planning participants also work to develop targeted solutions to achieve these goals. Typically, solutions include adoption of nitrogen management and edge-of-field practices as well as land use changes.

Each of these options vary in the amount of nitrogen reduction possible, according to Chris Hay, ISA senior environmental scientist.

Nitrogen management practices offer minimal water quality gains, however they are the easiest and least expensive for farmers to implement. Most of these practices reduce nitrate losses by 4-10 percent on average. Other infield practices, such as cover crops and living mulches, reduce nitrate by 28-41 percent on average.

Edge-of-field practices deliver much greater nitrate reduction of 32-50 percent on average. These practices come with higher upfront costs, but are cheaper in the long-run.

Adam Kiel, ISA operations manager of water resources

Matt Frana, NRCS

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Watershed plans facilitated by ISA Rock Creek Eldred Sherwood Lake

Upper Cedar Beaver Creek

Cedar Creek Lyons Creek Miller Creek

Elk Run

Don Williams Lake

Lime Creek Benton-Tama

Bioreactor Badger Creek Lake

English River

A watershed plan provides a roadmap for water and soil improvements based on farmer, landowner and community member input and goals. These stakeholders work to develop targeted solutions to achieve these goals. ISA has helped 13 watersheds across the state develop plans.

Finally, land use changes provide the highest nutrient reduction rates — 42-85 percent on average — but current market opportunities make large scale land use changes economically challenging.

“It is important to understand the performance of these practices and how they fit in the larger picture of nutrient reduction across a watershed and the state,” Hay says. “Additionally, edge-of-field practices require a long-term commitment and don’t fit in all locations, so we need to work with farmers to implement these practices where they make sense and align with farmer goals.”

Recognizing this challenge, ISA evaluates practices during the planning process to ensure suggestions achieve desired goals. This is done through erosion and water quality modeling.

Additionally, ISA uses computer models to determine the site suitability of each conservation practice identified in the watershed plan. The site suitability helps farmers and landowners understand the options on their farms and fields.

For example, it may not make financial sense to place a bioreactor in the drainage area of a wetland. A watershed plan can help fit the pieces together and determine the most cost effective location for the bioreactor.

“Through the planning process, we can

identify where specific practices should be placed to have the greatest impact on water quality at the most efficient price,” Kiel says.

Once a plan is complete, the watershed group receives a conceptual plan outlining the appropriate practices and suggested locations to reach watershed goals along with a recommended implementation schedule. From this point, farmers and community leaders begin the implementation process.

In 2016, ISA completed watershed plans for six HUC-12 subwatersheds within the larger Middle Cedar River Watershed. While this is a small fraction of the subwatersheds in the Middle Cedar, it begins to paint the picture of efforts needed to achieve water quality goals at a regional scale.

Taking implementation to the regional scale requires adequate funding. Within the Middle Cedar, farmers and local leaders are using funds available through the state Water Quality Initiative program as well as USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service programs.

Similar watershed planning and funding efforts are underway across the state.

“By following the watershed approach — building from the local level to the regional scale and finally statewide — all Iowan’s will gain a better understanding of the task ahead and the path toward progress,” Kiel says.

Saturated buffer

BIOREACTOR: Redirects tile water to an underground bed of wood chips where nitrate is removed naturally by microorganisms.

Vegetation on top of the bioreactor can provide other benefits such as wildlife habitat.

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ISA's Commitment to

CONSERVATION TOTAL INVESTMENT ( 2 0 02- 201 6)

TOTAL PROJECT SITES

50 MILLION

ISA Research Project Growth*

*2002-2016 cumulative ISA research project sites.

2.8 million

$

invested

171 water

30 projects

140 farmer water monitoring participants

MONITORING SITES

ISA Watershed Planning Commitment

20

100

education & outreach events

420

80 60 40

Planned in 2017 Completed

20

watershed plans

2015-2016 Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy Commitment

COMMUNICATIONS

pieces

Completed: 13 | Planned in 2017: 7 10-year goal: 100

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Iowa Agriculture Needs to Be

Climate Smart

By Roger Wolf, ISA director of Environmental Programs and Services

S

hould Iowa agricultural production be climate smart? My opinion is yes.

A polarizing debate about climate change has been raging for decades, but rather than engage in this debate, I wish to deal with what’s most important for Iowa farmers.

According to Jerry Hatfield, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and Gene Takle, Iowa State University, who are lead authors for the National Climate Assessment report, “Climate disruptions to agricultural production have increased in the past 40 years and are projected to increase over the next 25. By mid-century and beyond, these impacts will be increasingly negative on most crops and livestock. Many agricultural regions will experience declines in crop and livestock production from increased stress due to weeds, diseases, insect pests and other climate change induced stresses.”

Farmers have no choice but to adapt to the annual weather Mother Nature deals us. This isn’t anything new.

However, farmers are asking if these weather events are the new normal.

• Rain events are regularly topping field terraces designed for a once in 25-year event.

• Roads are underwater that have never flooded before.

The traditional practices used to control soil erosion are not performing adequately. Our traditional ways of management will not be enough, which is why some farmers now are more open to using cover crops as a practice to increase resistance to erosion caused by heavy and untimely rain events.

During the last year, I have been fortunate to be part of a national collaboration team for the North American Climate Smart Agriculture Alliance. The farmer-led Alliance is focused on advancing climate smart agriculture strategies including: 1. Sustainably increasing agricultural productivity and livelihoods, otherwise known as sustainable intensification. This includes producing more food, feed, fiber and energy.

2. Enhancing adaptive capacity and improving resilience. This includes improving cropping and livestock system hardiness, using management systems that help deal with erratic weather, improving pest management and increasing water and nutrient use efficiency.

3. Delivering ecosystem services,

sequestering carbon and reducing and/or avoiding greenhouse gas emissions. In this case, as farmers implement practices in 1 and 2, they also deliver these outcomes that may enable farmers to capture additional value if new markets were to materialize.

The Iowa Soybean Association already supports strategies consistent with climate smart ag and is helping farmers by: 1. Engaging in public and private research on best adaptations for crops and livestock.

2. Implementing conservation practices designed to maintain and improve land productivity.

3. Supporting and assisting farmers with understanding risk management to minimize potential losses.

4. Identifying adaptation pathways that strengthen production systems, improve profitability and reduce environmental impacts.

If Iowa agriculture successfully embraces Climate Smart strategies, we will be more productive, more profitable and have stronger soils and cleaner water. Essentially, we will be more resilient and more competitive.

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Farmers’ New Foe: Palmer Amaranth

By Allison Arp

I

n certain situations, threats can be predicted, assessed and a plan can be formed to combat the danger. This is true with hurricanes, the terminator’s inevitable return and for teams that had to face the Chicago Bears’ defense in the mid ‘80s. Iowa farmers facing Palmer amaranth didn’t have the same opportunity to prepare.

“In one year we went from five counties to 48 counties with known infestations,” said Bob Hartzler, Ph.D., Iowa State University (ISU) Extension weed specialist and professor of agronomy. “It has been a much more rapid spread than anyone could have predicted.”

What’s causing this influx in infestations?

Unfortunately, many have been caused by farmers who were trying to do the right thing. An increase in farmers enrolling land into the conservation reserve program (CRP) outpaced the ability of Iowa native seed producers to grow seed for these conservation plantings. This meant the mixes were supplemented with seed from native seed producers located in other states, some of which have widespread Palmer amaranth.

How can farmers prevent their crops from being affected?

“A good scouting program is

key,” Hartzler said. “By scouting and identifying the introduction and movement of Palmer, I think we can greatly reduce the rate that it spreads into fields.”

Scouting for Palmer has its complications. Waterhemp — the equally as ugly cousin of Palmer amaranth — already causes problems for Iowa farmers and the two are nearly identical, especially in early growth stages.

There are a few things farmers should look for to determine if they have a problem. Common waterhemp has a narrower leaf and a shorter leaf stem (petiole) than its broad leafed cousin.

Both have a hairless stem, but the

Virgil Schmitt, ISU Extension and Outreach field agronomist Region 10, examines a Palmer amaranth plant in a field in Muscatine County last year.

The field represented one of the first discoveries of the weed in the state.

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LYON

OSCEOLA

DICKINSON

EMMET

O’BRIEN

CLAY

PALO ALTO

KOSSUTH

WINNEBAGO WORTH

MITCHELL

HOWARD

FLOYD

CHICKASAW

LEAF BLADE

Palmer Amaranth in Iowa WINNESHIEK ALLAMAKEE SIOUX

HANCOCK

CERRO GORDO

FAYETTE PLYMOUTH

CHEROKEE

WOODBURY

BUENA VISTA POCAHONTAS HUMBOLDT

IDA

SAC

CALHOUN

WEBSTER

WRIGHT

FRANKLIN

BUTLER

BREMER BLACK HAWK BUCHANAN

HAMILTON

HARDIN

CRAWFORD

CARROLL

GREENE

BOONE

STORY

DELAWARE

DUBUQUE

GRUNDY BENTON

TAMA MONONA

CLAYTON

LINN

JONES

JACKSON

MARSHALL CLINTON CEDAR

SHELBY

HARRISON

AUDUBON GUTHRIE

DALLAS

JASPER

POLK

POWESHIEK

IOWA

JOHNSON

SCOTT MUSCATINE

POTTAWATTAMIE

CASS

ADAIR

MADISON

WARREN

MARION

MAHASKA

KEOKUK

WASHINGTON LOUISA

MILLS

MONTGOMERY

ADAMS

UNION

CLARKE

FREMONT

PAGE

TAYLOR

RINGGOLD DECATUR

LUCAS

MONROE

WAPELLO

JEFFERSON

WAYNE

APPANOOSE

DAVIS

VAN BUREN

HENRY DES MOINES

PETIOLE

LEE

This map shows where in Iowa Palmer amaranth has been confirmed.

Palmer amaranth was introduced via traditional agriculture practices Palmer was introduced in conservation plantings Palmer was found on railroad siding and researchers aren't sure how it got there (Data courtesy of B. Hartzler, Iowa State University)

terminal seedheads on Palmer amaranth are much longer (1–2 feet) than those of waterhemp (a few inches). The best trait for differentiating the two species are the long, sharp bracts on mature female Palmer amaranths. The bracts give the seedhead a spiky appearance and are painful when grabbed.

Farmers whose crop fields are infested with the weed shouldn’t lose hope. The next step in that situation is preventing it from spreading to additional fields. This can be done by harvesting infested fields last, cleaning machines between fields and doing everything possible to get 100 percent weed control.

“Cleaning machinery is not simple with something like Palmer,” Hartzler said. “It produces so many small seeds that get caught in equipment, but cleaning as well as you can is important.”

Combines are the machines most likely to transport the seeds since completely cleaning out a combine could take days. Hartzler recommends when done harvesting an infested field to let the combine run and blow

out everything instead of immediately leaving. Letting it blow out and clean itself for five minutes should get rid of 95 to 98 percent of the weed seed.

While this is happening farmers should take the opportunity to brush off areas of the combine where weed seeds could get caught.

The herbicide evaluation program at ISU is continually evaluating management programs that work on waterhemp and are confident that the same programs can be used against Palmer amaranth. Their Palmer-focused research is taking an educational approach to help farmers, making sure people know what to look for and to increase awareness of the problem.

“We know there’s probably a lot of conservation fields in the state that have Palmer,” Hartzler said. “The landowners are probably not aware of it so our big focus is on making them aware.”

Ready or not, Palmer amaranth is here in Iowa. Farmers, especially conservation-minded ones, may not have had a time to plan beforehand, but now that it’s here farmers need to make a plan to move forward.

One of the ways to distinguish between Palmer amaranth and its cousin waterhemp is to check if the stem (petiole) is significantly longer than the leaf blade as shown above.

(Photo courtesy of B. Hartzler, Iowa State University)

NO-TILL: No-till farming greatly reduces soil disturbance, which in turn reduces soil erosion, builds soil organic matter and helps reduce phosphorus entering waterways.

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John Glenn, CEO of Rathbun Regional Water Association

Walk Before You Run Water quality progress in Rathbun Lake

By Dorothy Tate

I

n life, sometimes you have to walk before you run and water quality improvement is no exception to this rule.

Rathbun Lake — arguably one of the most successful water quality improvement initiatives in the state — is a perfect example of how essential planning, targeted practices and collaboration are to achieving real progress.

WATER AND SEDIMENT The 354,000-acre watershed touches CONTROL BASINS: six counties in southern Iowa and Rathbun Lake is the primary water This practice is very similar John Glenn, source CEO offor Rathbun more than 80,000 people. to a terrace but waterRegional and WaterIn Association the mid-90s, algal blooms and sediment control basins are sedimentation were threatening the long-term usability of the lake and a generally short and straight, volunteer group of local stakeholders placed at the lower end of began discussing what could be done to protect the lake’s quality. slopes and do little to reduce slope length. They may be used to help control gully erosion and/or prevent sediment accumulations further downstream.

Creating a plan

The initial group formed the Rathbun Lake Land and Water Alliance which included Marty Braster, environmental management specialist at the Rathbun Regional Water Association.

“Our group just wanted to do

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something, to build practices, provide cost-share funds, and work with landowners,” Braster says. “We thought we knew what the problems were and wanted to go and fix them. If someone would have given us all the money that we were asking for, we would have spent it, and we would have protected water quality by accident.”

While the group had many ideas about how to immediately get to work solving the problems plaguing the lake, consultations with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, and USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service revealed a plan for implementation and measurement was needed before the first step was taken.

“You have to know what your water quality concern is and where it is coming from to do anything about it,” says Braster, who still works on improvement efforts in the watershed. “Otherwise you will expend a significant amount of resources without even knowing if you are accomplishing what you want to. Monitoring is the heart and soul of

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whether we are making progress.”

John Glenn, CEO of Rathbun Regional Water Association, agrees.

Glenn farms in the area and is a founding member of the Alliance.

“Our approach ended up being very targeted and we were able to identify the levels and sources of sediment and phosphorus coming into the lake,” Glenn says. “Then our partners were willing to join us in various ways.”

The plan identified the need to target efforts to just 25 percent of the land in the watershed. Initial goals were set to implement practices on 30,000 acres of this priority land, reduce the sediment load in the lake by 90,000 tons per year and reduce the phosphorous load by 360,000 pounds annually.

Building relationships

Relationship building with stakeholders has been the key to success. Three dedicated, full-time staff work directly with landowners and farm-operators to implement voluntary practices on priority land acres such as terraces, sediment basins and cover crops.

Velvet Buckingham is an environmental specialist with the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship working in the Rathbun Lake Watershed. She connects with farmers to discuss issues and decides the best practices to meet the needs of their operations.

“Voluntary efforts have worked here,” Buckingham says. “Landowners are always willing and want to work with us. Most of the time, we have many more landowners that want to do the work than we have cost-share available.”

Jim and Betty Sullivan have been involved in protecting Rathbun Lake since 2006. They were the first farmers

Jim and Betty Sullivan

to use a low-interest loan provided by the State Revolving Loan Fund to implement conservation practices on their farm. The Sullivans were able to complete $100,000 worth of improvements on their farm — including terraces and sediment basins — and spread the cost over a 10-year period, making their goals for land improvement an affordable reality.

“The loan program was absolutely a godsend,” says Jim, who is an Alliance board member. “It’s been a collaborative effort from many different departments. Everyone has a stake in this game because we drink the water.”

Buckingham has also had success with absentee landowners who live outside of the area or state. The landowners realize when land isn’t protected, it isn’t productive and are willing to install practices, she says.

Results from voluntary efforts Voluntary measures taken by landowners and farmer-operators with the assistance of the coordinators have produced results:

• Practices installed on 45 percent of priority land acres — currently 13,600 acres • Reduced sediment by 54 percent — current reduction of 49,000 tons per year • Reduced phosphorus load by 58 percent — current reduction of 211,300 pounds annually Since 2004, farmers in the watershed have invested more than $5 million to make achieving these goals a reality. Other partners have committed more than $30 million for improvement practices.

Buckingham cites the combination of willing and engaged landowners, knowledgeable field staff and sufficient funding as keys to the success of the project. She also credits members of the Alliance.

“The mission of the alliance is voluntary only and it absolutely has worked,” Braster agrees. “We have had overwhelming and unwavering support from public and private partners. When you put together these pieces, it works.”

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THE STORY BEHIND

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