What We Do

Empowering Farmers with Information

At IAWA, one of our top priorities is sharing the stories, opportunities, and successes of conservation. We believe that informed farmers and partners are empowered to take action. Real progress happens when people understand the need for conservation, see the benefits, and have the tools to implement it effectively.

Clean Water in Iowa Starts Here (CWISH) is a statewide radio campaign celebrating the story of how agriculture can positively impact clean water. IAWA is the official sponsor of CWISH. In that role, we help farmers, agri-businesses, and others tell their story of clean water practices through weekly 2-hour shows.

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Change doesn’t occur within a vacuum. Mother nature, community discussions, legislative action, and so much more are happening simultaneously with water quality efforts. Being informed helps us all do our jobs better. Through our newsletter, IAWA shares a monthly roundup of both original reporting and news from around the web so that you know the water quality landscape better.

  • Pig in a barn

    Farmer Feature: Bob Puetz

    Hog farmer uses conservation to prepare land for next generation By Micaela Cashman In the…

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  • Farmer Feature: Ross Kurash

    Ross Kurash’s Recipe for Conservation Success: Recognition + Education + Implementation By Micaela Cashman Ross…

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  • Cedar Rapids water treatment facility basin

    The Secret to Clean Water in Cedar Rapids

    How the City of Cedar Rapids Treats It’s Drinking Water: A Step-By-Step Process As the…

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  • Cedar Rapids Farmers are Protecting Soil and Water with Proven Practices

    How the City of Cedar Rapids Supports Farmers to Implement Water Quality Practices ANKENY, IA…

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There are millions of dollars and dozens of programs available to pay farmers for cover crops, wetlands, prairie, and more. With our tools, it doesn’t have to be confusing or overwhelming! We created a hub to learn about cost share and to filter and compare programs.

From small farms to large farms, row crops to livestock, and organic to traditional agriculture, and everything in between, we believe there is at least one more thing every farmer could do to improve water quality. IAWA provides information and resources for a suite of conservation practices so farmers can choose the best options for their unique farms. We also help organize and support field days.

How ACWA created the conservation agronomy model. Learn more.

IAWA’s reach would be greatly reduced without the assistance of our partners. We have a network of 50+ partners who reach millions of farmers in Iowa and nationwide. And many of these organizations are trusted advisors to farmers, landowners, and conservation professionals. We are proud to provide them with conservation information and resources to help their customers, clients, and colleagues.