The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) announced the selection of Jaia Fischer as the new state conservationist in Iowa. Fischer began the role on Oct. 4, 2026.
“Jaia Fischer’s deep connection to Iowa agriculture and her strong leadership experience make her an outstanding choice for state conservationist,” said NRCS Chief Colton L. Buckley. “We’re proud to welcome her to this role and confident she will deliver meaningful conservation results for Iowa’s producers and communities and keep working lands in working hands.”
As assistant state conservationist for management and strategy, Fischer oversaw business operations for Iowa NRCS where she implemented streamlined processes resulting in more effective and efficient service for Iowa producers. Prior to that, Fischer served in technical positions in the field as a soil conservationist and district conservationist. Throughout her career she has served in acting capacities
at National and State levels.
“Serving the people of Iowa and carrying out the mission of NRCS is a true honor,” Fischer said. “I look forward to working with producers to maintain the health and productivity of the lands they depend on—now and for generations to come.”
Fischer was raised on a farm in central Iowa where she currently resides with her family. They have a cow/calf operation and a row crop farm. She is also very active in her rural community with agricultural programs for children and young adults.
For more than 90 years, NRCS has helped farmers, ranchers and forestland owners make investments in their operations and local communities to improve the quality of our air, water, soil, and wildlife habitat.
NRCS uses the latest science and technology to help keep working lands working, boost agricultural economies, and increase the competitiveness of American agriculture. NRCS provides one-on-one, technical advice and financial assistance and works with producers to help them reach their goals through voluntary, incentive-based conservation programs. For more information, visit nrcs.usda.gov.
