USDA, IDALS, NRCS and FDC Enterprises partner with farmers to provide alternative income opportunities and environmental advantages.

Southern Iowa farmers are embracing a climate-smart switchgrass cropping system, a relatively new program that offers alternative revenue opportunities while promoting environmental benefits like reduced soil erosion, decreased nutrient loss and improved water infiltration.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) and Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) are providing cost-share funds for switchgrass seeding and soil rental payments for landowners through a five-year Regional Conservation Partnership...