Impacts for Iowans

Protecting natural resources

Iowans expect a good return on their investment in Iowa State University programs.

Here are examples of how the College of Agriculture and ISU Extension encourage wise use of natural resources.

Grazing alternatives improve water quality

A team of Iowa State scientists evaluated livestock grazing practices to improve the water quality of Iowa's farm streams. Researchers in animal science and the natural resource ecology and management departments teamed with a National Soil Tilth Laboratory scientist, to determine how cattle grazing management practices may reduce erosion and phosphorus and sediment levels in pasture creeks. They found that losses of phosphorus from pastures can be controlled through rotational grazing practices that leave sufficient forage residue. And avoiding streambank grazing during certain periods of the year, such as late spring, would reduce losses of sediment and phosphorus.

New economic tool assesses water policies

Researchers at the Center for Agricultural and Rural Development have developed a method for better assessing the costs and benefits of a range of conservation practices in agriculture to mitigate water pollution. The Soil and Water Assessment Tool predicts stream flow, sediment and nutrient loads (phosphorous and nitrogen) for 13 watersheds in Iowa based on selected conservation practices. Using this combination of models and data, the researchers were able to test the effects of such practices as grassed waterways, terracing, contouring, conservation tillage, land set-asides (such the Conservation Reserve Program), and nutrient management strategies. The conservation practices are estimated to be costly but provide significant reductions in water pollution from agricultural runoff, with expenditures not out of the range of recent outlays for commodity programs in Iowa.

ISU provides assistance for cattle producers

Several programs are available through Iowa State to help producers protect ground and surface water quality near their cattle operations. One provides assistance in developing an Environmental Management System, which helps cattle producers identify strengths and weaknesses in their operations. Producers can contact their county extension office to get connected with a livestock specialist or ag engineer who can help with an initial assessment and provide technical assistance on feedlot design and manure management. Technical assistance and cost-sharing funds are available through the Natural Resources Conservation Service.