Producers interested in learning more about cover crops and how to successfully incorporate their use in both stocker cattle and cow-calf operations are invited to two field day events in northwest Iowa on Tuesday, April 11. Erika Lundy, extension beef program specialist with Iowa Beef Center said the events will be held on the same day in two different locations. There’s no cost to attend either field day.
“The morning session will be held at the Iowa State University Allee Research Farm near Newell, 2030 640th Street, and will focus on using stocker cattle to graze cereal rye,” Lundy said. “This session runs from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. with presenters Iowa State extension agronomy field specialists Joel DeJong and Mike Witt, and beef program specialist Beth Doran.”
Rebecca Vittetoe, ISU Extension and Outreach agronomy field specialist said other presenters will offer information on cover crop termination and management going into corn. Mark Hanna, ISU Extension and Outreach Agricultural Engineer, will talk about planter settings and managing row crops being planted into cover crops. Michael Henderson, Area 1 Agronomist with Natural Resources Conservation Service, will describe cost share options and crop insurance considerations when integrating cover crops into a row crop system.
Following the Allee field day, producers are invited to travel to the Mark Schleisman farm located at 1635 365th Street, Lake City, for a complimentary lunch. The afternoon field day will be held at the Schleisman farm will run from Noon to 3 p.m.
“This program will look at cover crop planting and grazing strategies for cow-calf production,” Lundy said. “Topics for the afternoon session include cover crop economics, herbicide considerations for grazing and establishing cover crops, and soil compaction.”
There is no cost for either field day thanks to the sponsorship of ISU Extension and Outreach, IBC, Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture, and Practical Farmers of Iowa. However, those planning to attend are asked to RSVP to ensure adequate meal and materials. To RSVP, contact Alisha Bower of PFI by phone at 515-232-5661 or email alisha@practicalfarmers.org.
A flier with details for both field day sessions is available on the IBC website.