Keokuk County farmers looking to adopt soil health and nutrient reduction practices have an opportunity to receive financial assistance through the 2026 cost share program now being offered by the Keokuk County Soil and Water Conservation District.
Eligible practices include cover crops, no-till or strip till farming, and the use of a nitrification inhibitor when applying fertilizer in the fall. Farmers interested in taking advantage of the funding are encouraged to apply before August 1, 2026, with funds set to be made available for approval in July for first-time users.
For cover crop assistance, first-time users can receive $30 per acre while previous users are eligible for $20 per acre, with cost share available for up to 160 acres. First-time cover crop users will be given priority consideration. Previous users are welcome to apply but approval is not guaranteed. Assistance for no-till, strip till, and nitrification inhibitor practices is limited to first-time users only.
Keokuk County residents can apply by contacting the Keokuk County Soil and Water Conservation District at 607 E. Jackson in Sigourney, or by calling 641-622-3380, Extension 3.
