GREENFIELD, Iowa — Organic growers and those with an in interest in transitioning to organic production can learn more about the latest research from the Iowa State University Organic Ag Program during a field day Aug. 22 near Greenfield.
Kathleen Delate, professor and organic specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, said the event will be held at Iowa State’s Neely-Kinyon Memorial Research and Demonstration Farm, 2557 Norfolk Ave., Greenfield.
Researchers from Iowa State University and the United States Department of Agriculture – Agricultural Research Service will discuss best practices for organic corn, soybean, wheat and rye production, including fertilizing and weed management. The conservation strips on the N-K Farm will be shown by Nick Thompson, the Pheasants Forever/NRCS farm bill biologist, who will discuss the value of installing conservation prairie strips on your farm. Later, Thompson will present a talk at supper on “Conservation Practices to Benefit Soil, Water and Wildlife.”
“We have had a very challenging season so far, with drought in June, followed by significant hail (25% damage to the corn) in July and excessive rains in August,” said Delate. “Organic prices are still holding strong, at $9.79 per bushel for organic corn and $22.00 per bushel for organic soybeans, which will be a buffer against any down-pressure in yields.”
The field day will run from 4-6 p.m. and includes a meal featuring local and organic foods. Participants will also learn about the new USDA National Organic Program’s Transitioning to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), https://www.ams.usda.gov/services/organic-certification/topp, which will support technical assistance to help producers overcome technical, cultural and financial shifts during and after organic certification. Anyone interested in transitioning to organic production can receive free mentorship through this program.
In addition to Delate, speakers will include Sabrina Ruis, soil scientist, USDA-ARS, Ames, Iowa, and Thompson. The event is supported through a grant from the USDA National Organic Program Transitioning to Organic Partnership Program.
Directions: Go two miles south on Highway 25 after the intersection with Hwy. 92 in Greenfield to 260th Street, head one mile east on 260th to Norfolk Ave., where you head north for a half mile to the farm on your left.
For more information, contact Delate at [email protected] or 515-294-7069.
— Iowa State University Extension and Outreach
