Conservation Compass

Practical Farmers of Iowa (PFI) Cover Crop Program

Modified On
June 19, 2026

PFI offers a straightforward program that many farmers come back to year after year for its ease of use. *New in 2026, it is partially funded via an AMP grant by USDA, meaning it does not stack with other federal funding.

Info at a Glance

Lead Organization

Practical Farmers of Iowa

Funding Source

Private (Carbon) & Public (AMP-USDA)

Agronomist Support?

Yes, and required for producers new to cover crops

Eligibility:

Both new and continuing acres; must be a fall-planted cover crop

Location

Statewide

Contract Length

1 year

Deadline

Oct 1

Sign-up Process

Can sign up for this cost share before or after planting cover crops. Sign up in as little as 10 minutes and receive payments between January and March of the following year.

Pros and Cons

  • PFI makes it extremely easy
  • Reliable program that's been around a long time
  • Cannot stack with other carbon programs


Rates:

$15/acre

Notes:

Farmers using cover crops for less than 2 years must do a short consultation to help them be successful. Optional consultations are available for farmers with more experience.

New in 2026:
-No acre cap
-Farmers must provide 578s, maps, and a signed release allowing PFI to contact FSA on their behalf.

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

Water Quality Initiative (WQI)

This state incentive is popular because it’s easy to sign up for and accepts both new and continuing acres; but sign up early. Funds are first come, first served.


Learn more

Iowa Financial Assistance Program (IFIP)

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.


Learn more

Looking for help?
Search our Agronomist Directory.

AGRONOMIST DIRECTORY