Conservation Compass

Iowa Financial Assistance Program (IFIP)

Modified On
April 6, 2026

This state-funded program program offers a one-time lump sum payment for 4 years’ worth of seeding cover crops. Other practices are available as well.

Info at a Glance

Lead Organization

Local SWCD Offices

Funding Source

State

Agronomist Support?

Yes

Eligibility:

Cannot enroll acres that are already under active IFIP management agreement

Location

Statewide

Contract Length

1-4 years

Deadline

Rolling, must sign up before implementation

Sign-up Process

You fill out an application at your local SWCD office or online. It is a semi-competetive application. One-time payment is made after local SWCD funding approval and verification of first implementation (minimum 2-6 months)

Pros and Cons

  • IFIP has cost share for other conservation practices, too.
  • Four year agreement. But worth it if you're committed to improving soil health!


Rates:

$25/acre

Notes:

Varies; set by local SWCDs


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

Soil and Water Outcomes Fund (SWOF)

Run by AgOutcomes, a subsidiary of Iowa Soybean Association, SWOF is a carbon inset program that pays farmers for environmental outcomes. It’s great for farmers with long term goals becasue you can add new practices every year to potentially increase your rates.


Learn more

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Search our Agronomist Directory.

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