Conservation Compass

Dubuque County Drone Seeding Program

Modified On
April 6, 2026

This is a Dubuque County program that offers hassle-free drone application and is especially beneficial for those wanting to try multi-species or get their cover crops planted earlier.

Info at a Glance

Lead Organization

Dubuque County Watersheds, Sand County Foundation

Funding Source

Federal

Agronomist Support?

Yes

Eligibility:

New acres or additionality (continuing acres must be upgraded to multi-species)

Location

Dubuque County

Contract Length

1 year

Deadline

Until acres run out (Typically Feb-May)

Sign-up Process

Sign up in under an hour in-office or on-farm with a Dubuque Co. Watershed staff member. Approval can take 2 months, but is rarely declined

Pros and Cons

  • Great for farmers who don't want to apply their own cover crop or are nervous about it
  • Great for oats, becasue you can get cover crops on earlier due to drone application
  • Especially great for those wanting to move to multi-species (same agreement no matter the species, but more ROI with multi)
  • Drone application can sometimes not take as well as drilling


Rates:

Cover crop seed and drone application are 100% covered.

Notes:

200 acre cap
There is a new option for custom drill seeding on silage acres only

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.

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Search our Agronomist Directory.

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