Enhancing Iowa’s Lakes
See how TNC is uniting farmers to enhance farm resiliency and water quality in Iowa.
When thinking of large natural lakes, the famous Great Lakes in the Midwest, surrounding states like Illinois and Michigan, often come to mind. However, Iowans are fortunate to have stunning Great Lakes right here in Northwest Iowa, nestled in Palo Alto and Dickinson Counties. Five Island Lake and Big Spirit Lake watersheds are not only a hub for recreational activities but also home to some of the state's most unique aquatic plants and animals, making them a vital economic asset for Iowa.
Formed by the slow melting of glacier chunks, the lakes are now a haven for wildlife and a source of drinking water for local communities. Mixed with rich outdoor recreational opportunities and a strong agricultural presence, the conservation and improvement of these lakes are essential for preserving both lake quality and the local economy.
The Nature Conservancy in Iowa has introduced a new project to enhance lake quality by working with nearby farms to minimize excess runoff. Collaborating with local conservation partners, including NRCS and conservation districts, and existing county lake protection plans, TNC has identified gaps in providing farmers with essential on-the-ground support.
With grants from The Mosaic Company, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and the Wright Foundation for Sustainability and Innovation, a local TNC expert in conservation agronomy will provide hands-on support to farmers. Together with farmers, TNC is working to establish the Northwest Iowa Ag Stewardship Alliance, a community of farmers dedicated to sharing knowledge and implementing regenerative agriculture practices. This collaborative approach allows farmers to stay profitable while reducing harmful nutrient and sediment runoff into the Iowa Great Lakes, ensuring the long-term health and resiliency of these vital natural resources.
Through collective efforts and innovative conservation practices, a lasting positive impact can be made on lake quality and the community, with farmers continuing these efforts to ensure the benefits endure for generations to come.
Connecting Farmers for Regenerative Agriculture
In the unique landscape of Northwest Iowa, a new project is taking root, aiming to protect Iowa's Great Lakes and support local farmers.
Quote: Paige Frautschy
Farmers learn from farmers. TNC is just the bridge connecting farmers already using conservation practices with those eager to start.
The key to success in the Northwest Iowa Lakes Project lies in farmer-led outreach and programming. By identifying and empowering farmers in the community, TNC will foster leadership and encourage participation in regular meetings, field days and workshops. These events are crucial for sharing knowledge, demonstrating practices and inspiring more farmers to adopt conservation practices.
“TNC is working hand-in-hand with farmers to implement regenerative agriculture practices like cover crops, reduced tillage and prairie strips,” says Frautschy. “We're also building relationships with local ag businesses, Iowa State Extension staff, lake associations and local natural resource offices who all have the same interest to protect our water resources.”
The goals are ambitious: to engage at least 40 farmers and influence 30,000 acres with improved nutrient management and other conservation practices. These efforts will benefit both wildlife and farmers' bottom lines, ensuring that Iowans and visitors can continue to enjoy the beautiful lakes for years.
Contact Us
If you would like to be involved in this project as a farmer leader or in any role, please reach out to:
- Paige Frautschy
Iowa Agriculture Program Director
paige.frautschy@tnc.org
- Malu Menon
Iowa Agriculture Project Manager and Conservation Agronomist
mridula.menon@tnc.org
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