Conservation Compass

Maquoketa River Cover Crop Initiative

Modified On
April 6, 2026

This is a local, community-driven cost share program in the Maquoketa River Watershed, funded through an EPA grant to the Iowa DNR.

Info at a Glance

Lead Organization

Limestone Bluffs RC&D, Maquoketa River WMA

Funding Source

Federal

Agronomist Support?

SWCD support as needed

Eligibility:

New acres only; Priority goes to farmers who meet underserved criteria including women, veterans, beginning, socially disadvantaged, and low income

Location

Maquoketa River Watershed

Contract Length

1 year

Deadline

October 1, must sign up before implementing practice

Sign-up Process

Process takes about 30 minutes online and payment is made after cover crop receipts are turned in

Pros and Cons

  • Get more personalized support with this locally-driven program Impressive rates
  • Short term program and may not be available after it closes


Rates:

$30/acre

Notes:

200 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

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