What those crop signs really mean on Iowa farms

Driving on Iowa’s rural highways, you’ve likely noticed the crop signs posted along the edges of farm fields.

At first glance, you might think those crop signs mean the fields are owned by big companies, but that’s not true.

Instead, those fields belong to family farmers. The signs are advertisements, promoting which seed variety the farmers planted.

They might look like just another part of the country landscape. In reality, they tell an important story about how farmers choose seeds to grow healthier crops and, ultimately, safe, nutritious food for your family.

 

Choosing the right seed matters

Farmers know that choosing the right seed variety is essential for growing a healthy crop.

Each field has its own soil type, its own weed and pest challenges, and even its own climate.

A seed variety that thrives in a cool, flat northern Iowa field may struggle in a warmer, hilly southern Iowa farm.

Thanks to modern seed technology, many seed varieties are naturally resistant to certain pests, allowing farmers to use fewer crop protection products. That helps farmers protect the environment while keeping food safe.

Today’s corn varieties in Iowa are also better able to withstand drought and absorb nitrogen from the soil, reducing the need for added fertilizer.

Plus, farmers are growing crop varieties with added nutritional benefits, such as soybeans with heart-healthy oils and corn that’s resistant to a toxic fungus that can make farm animals sick.

These improvements help ensure the food on your family’s table is safe, nutritious and high quality.

Most Iowa farms are family owned

It’s true that, on average, farms today are larger than they were in the past. But the vast majority of farms in Iowa are still family owned – not corporate owned.

About 95% of all U.S. farms are family farms, according to the most recent 2022 U.S. Census of Agriculture.

And many Iowa farms have a long family legacy. More than 21,000 Century Farms and 2,000 Heritage Farms have been recognized throughout Iowa. Century Farms have been owned by the same family for 100 years; Heritage Farms, for 150 years.

You’ve likely seen these Century and Heritage Farm signs proudly displayed on Iowa family farms as you drive through the countryside.

 

PHOTO BY CONRAD SCHMIDT

Iowa farmers grow healthy food for your family

Iowa farmers have generations of experience in caring for farm animals and the land.

So the next time you pass a crop sign, remember that farmers are choosing the best seeds to grow safe, nutritious food. Those choices help keep grocery stores stocked with affordable grains, meat, poultry, milk and more for your family.

Find out more about the Iowa farmers behind your food at AmericaNeedsFarmers.org.

 

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Learn more about author Teresa Bjork here.