Iowa Learning Farms will host a cover crop and strip-tillage field day on Wednesday, June 8, from 5:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m. at Bob and Linda Lynch’s farm, in rural Gilmore City. The event is free and open to the public, and includes a complimentary meal.

Humboldt County Soil and Water Conservation District Commissioner and Conservation Districts of Iowa President, Bob Lynch, is leading by example on his family farm by implementing cover crops, strip-tillage and no-tilling soybeans into standing corn stalks. Along with their son, Jay, Bob and Linda farm land that has been in their family for over 100 years.

The Lynch’s are implementing conservation practices on their farm because they “want to leave the soil in better shape for future generations of family farmers. Working the soil kills the soil and critters in the soil.” Bob will have his planter and strip-till machine on display as he shares his experience of transitioning to strip-tillage and implementing cover crops.

Also speaking at the field day is Angie Rieck-Hinz, field agronomist for Iowa State University Extension and Outreach (ISUEO) who will discuss the benefits cover crops as well as herbicide restriction considerations. Mark Hanna, agricultural engineer for ISUEO will share tips on adjusting planter settings for no-till systems, as well as considerations for strip-tillage systems. Clare Lindahl, Executive Director for Conservation Districts of Iowa discuss the retainN project for testing tile lines for nitrogen.

The field day will be held at the Lynch Farm, 809 SE D Ave, Gilmore City. From Humboldt, take IA-3 W for 10 miles. Turn left on Birch Ave. and head south for 0.3 miles. Take the first right to head west on SE D Ave. Destination will be on the north side of the road.

The workshop is free and open to the public, but reservations are suggested to ensure adequate space and food. Contact Liz Juchems at 515-294-5429 or email ilf@iastate.edu.

For more information about Iowa Learning Farms, visit the www.extension.iastate.edu/ilf/.