The Pig Farmer Batch and Build water quality partnership program is seeking landowners and farmers to implement conservation practices in the Boone and North Raccoon River watersheds. 

The program is targeted at pig farmers and landowners who utilize manure on their row crop fields. The project aims to increase the number of saturated buffers and bioreactors constructed at tile outlets to reduce nitrate loss and improve water quality in the two priority watersheds. 

Saturated buffers redirect tile-drained water through a vegetated area that filters out nitrates while supporting wildlife habitat. Bioreactors are pits filled with wood chips that filter tile drainage water. 

“These are long lasting practices with high efficiency when it comes to improving water quality in the state,” says Abbey Hunt, project coordinator at the Iowa Nutrient Research and Education Council. 

The batch and build model is a newer and faster way to install practices on multiple farms at once rather than one at a time. Hunt works with participants to determine the best practice for their farms. 

“The goal is to make it as easy as possible for the landowner to apply and easier for the contractor working on the project,” Hunt explains.

The project covers 100% of the construction costs, and participants receive a $1,000 incentive. To learn more, contact Hunt at 515-868-0313 or ahunt@agribiz.org.

The Pig Farmer Batch and Build program is a partnership among the Iowa Pork Producers Association, Iowa Nutrient Research and Education Council and Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.