Monetary grants available to fund conservation research and demonstration projects

Projects must prevent soil erosion and improve water quality in Iowa

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig announced the State Soil Conservation and Water Quality Committee Research and Demonstration Fund has grant money available to support research, education or demonstration projects focused on reducing erosion and improving water quality. Funds are available to collaborative teams of scientists, farmers, institutions, soil and water conservation districts, and educators in the state of Iowa.

Projects must help improve and sustain Iowa’s natural resources, like the fertile soil and fresh water, on which our state’s agriculture-based economy depends to qualify.

“Research and innovation are key to accelerating the adoption of agricultural conservation practices around the state,” said Secretary Naig. “The research and demonstration projects selected for this grant will ultimately assist Iowans in their efforts to be better stewards of our soil and water.”
 
Successful grant applications will clearly explain:

- How the project will enhance the quality of life for farmers, rural communities, and society as a whole.
- How the project will help prevent soil erosion and improve water quality in Iowa.
- Expected outcomes of the project and how they will be measured and evaluated.

The amount of funds allocated for each project will be established by the State Soil Conservation and Water Quality Committee. It is anticipated that $150,000 will be available and projects are expected to begin July 1, 2019. Individual grants cannot exceed a total of $50,000 over a three year period.
Applications must be submitted to the State Soil Conservation and Water Quality Committee by May 22, 2019, to be considered. To apply for the grant, visit iowaagriculture.gov. Applicants can also contact the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship Division of Soil Conservation and Water Quality at 515-281-5851.