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Deadlines/Dates
July 30: CRP/Kernza Field Day
August 1: Deadline to submit a COC Nomination
August 15: Deadline to enroll in Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP)
September 30: Deadline for ARCPLC Revisions
Conservation Cost Share Now Available in Allamakee County: Apply for IFIP and REAP Funds
The Allamakee Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) is now accepting applications for cost share funding through the Iowa Financial Incentives Program (IFIP) and the Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) Program. These state-funded programs provide financial assistance to landowners and operators interested in installing approved conservation practices to protect natural resources and improve long-term farm sustainability.
Both IFIP and REAP are administered by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS), and funding is made available through the Allamakee SWCD on a first-come, first-served basis.
All practices must meet NRCS technical standards and be approved prior to installation. Landowners are encouraged not to begin work until they have an approved plan and funding agreement in place.
Iowa Financial Incentives Program (IFIP)
IFIP is one of Iowa’s most versatile and widely used state cost share programs. It offers funding for a broad range of structural and management practices on cropland and pasture. The goal is to reduce erosion, protect soil from runoff, and improve nutrient use efficiency.
• Pays up to 50–75% of eligible project costs (varies by practice and applicant)
• Supports both cropland and pasture improvements
• Excellent for installing terraces, waterways, sediment basins, and similar earth-moving projects
• Also supports cover crops, and other operational enhancements
• Great for landowners seeking long-term erosion control and soil productivity
IFIP funds are limited and prioritized based on resource concern, cost-effectiveness, and readiness to install.
Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP)
REAP focuses more on conservation practices that enhance wildlife habitat, water quality, and natural resource protection. It’s ideal for landowners interested in native habitat, permanent vegetation, or restoring sensitive areas.
Offers up to 75% cost share on certain practices like:
• Prairie Buffer strips
• Forest Stand Improvement (TSI)
• Tree Planting
- Can be used for establishing diverse native seedings on marginal land or in riparian zones
- Complements other programs like CRP, EQIP, or CSP for stacked conservation value
REAP is especially beneficial for projects focused on wildlife, pollinators, and water protection goals - and is a great fit for landowners seeking more permanent, naturalized conservation solutions.
Cost share funding is limited and will be awarded as applications are approved. Landowners are encouraged to contact the office as soon as possible to be considered for 2025 project funding.
