Conservation Compass

Central Iowa Interseeder Program

Modified On
April 6, 2026

This is not a cost share program, but a discounted application service that helps you save money on cover crops and get them in earlier. Hire out application via a high-boy interseeder owned by a central Iowa partnership for cleaner water.

Info at a Glance

Lead Organization

Heartland Co-op

Funding Source

Private

Agronomist Support?

Yes

Eligibility:

Any row crop acres in project area

Location

13 counties in Central Iowa

Contract Length

NA

Deadline

Aug 1 preferred (limited availability after)

Sign-up Process

Heartland Co-op conservation agronomists will help you sign up and offer agronomy expertise if needed.

Pros and Cons

  • Getting cover crop seed on earlier in the season has major benefits for soil health and erosion prevention
  • You don't have to worry about time in the field planting cover crops
  • A Heartland conservation agronomist will help you find cost share and with agronomic advice
  • Not a program for last minute planners since rates go up and the seeder is usually booked solid


Rates:

Cost to you:
$12/acre with signup before Aug 1
$14/acre with signup after Aug 1
$8/acre if applied post harvest
*Does not include seed cost

Helpful Links

Program Website

CONTACT IAWA Find Conservation Agronomist Conservation Compass Home

Stacks well with:

Always check with program rep before signing up for multiple programs. Learn more about stacking here.

Crop Insurance Discount Program (CIDP)

Receive a $5/acre rebate on your crop insurance if you plant cover crops. An especially helpful program for those who miss deadlines for other, higher-paying programs.


Learn more

Practical Farmers of Iowa (PFI) Cover Crop Program

PFI offers a straightforward program that many farmers come back to year after year for its ease of use and easy stackability with public funding.


Learn more

Looking for help?
Search our Agronomist Directory.

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