Learn more about management plans and opportunities for organic production
Organic growers and those with an interest in transitioning to organic production can learn from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach experts, USDA-NRCS soil conservationists and USDA-ARS soil scientists about tried-and-true organic practices and NRCS programs to support these practices during a Sept. 12 training. The training will be held at Reiman Gardens from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is free to attend; however, registration is required. To register, visit https://forms.gle/eRgdEDDe1gNvjeDq8.
“This training will provide a review of organic opportunities offered by NRCS in their EQIP and CSP programs, as well as information on the new 823 Organic Management Practice Standard,” explained Kathleen Delate, professor and organic specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. “Details on Organic System Plans that include nutrient and pest management plans will be presented, along with examples of erosion and nutrient budgeting calculations that can be used for NRCS conservation practice standards.”
In addition to Delate, speakers will include Sabrina Ruis, soil scientist, USDA-ARS, Ames; Antonio Mallarino, professor in agronomy and extension specialist at Iowa State University; Kevin Kuhn, Iowa NRCS resource conservationist; and three organic farmers: Ron Rosmann, Paul Mugge and Scott Shriver.
Participants will also learn about the new USDA National Organic Program’s Transitioning to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP), which provides additional support and free mentorship to help producers overcome technical, cultural and financial shifts during and after organic certification.
The training is free to attend and lunch will be provided; however, registration is required. Register at https://forms.gle/eRgdEDDe1gNvjeDq8.
This session will also be broadcasted through Zoom, but in-person attendance is preferred for more hands-on training. To watch through Zoom, or view the archived recording, register at https://forms.gle/eRgdEDDe1gNvjeDq8.
The event is supported through a grant from the USDA National Organic Program Transitioning to Organic Partnership Program. For more information, Kathleen Delate can be reached at [email protected] or 515-294-7069.
