Conservation Compass

Farmers for Soil Health

Modified On
April 6, 2026

A program made by farmers for farmers, this is a USDA grant funded initially by the Climate Smart Program (Now known as the Advancing Markets For Producers program). New in 2026, payments are $35 per acre for all farmers, not just those who are new to cover crops, and must sign up before seeding.

Info at a Glance

Lead Organization

Iowa lead: Iowa Soybean Association

Funding Source

Public (Federal)

Agronomist Support?

Yes, from an ISA Conservation Agronomist

Eligibility:

New and continuing acres

Location

Statewide

Contract Length

1 year

Deadline

April 1 to Aug 31

Sign-up Process

Must sign up prior to seeding (New as of 2026). Contact an ISA agronomist for help. Signing up requries logging onto the FSH platform, submitting survey questions, documentation, and secondary verification. Before payment, DTN conducts remote sensing to confirm cover crops.

Pros and Cons

  • Will stack with state Water Quality Initiative funding (most federally funded programs do not, but this one does)
  • Conservation Agronomist support from Iowa Soybean Association
  • Great option for early adopters of cover crops since payments don't require new acres.
  • Program for sure available through 2026; 2027 and beyond are TBD


Rates:

$35/acre

Notes:

2,000 acre cap

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.

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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