Mackane also got the scoop on new grant programs from Ducks Unlimited lands biologists, who are helping farmers implement conservation practices throughout the Midwest and beyond. They say Ducks Unlimited — the world’s largest private waterfowl and wetlands conservation organization — is focusing more on the ag space and recognizing the game-changing impact that no-till, strip-till and cover crops have downstream. 

Liam Bonk, Ducks Unlimited Working Lands Biologist: “One of the gateway programs for DU getting into this space in the Upper Midwest has been this Advancing Markets for Producers Partnership grant. We incentivize things like multi-species covers, no-till, strip-till, edge of field buffers and livestock integration – grazing cover crops. DU is involved in providing the technical assistance, guiding the producer through that program across the finish line. 

Devin Stortz, Ducks Unlimited Working Lands Biologist: “We’re rebuilding our wetlands for waterfowl and water quality at the bottom of these watersheds. These watersheds, specifically in state of Iowa, consist of predominantly ag ground. Cover crops being the number one practice that can benefit an ag producer, that’s also going to benefit the water quality and wildlife habitat downstream.” 

They encourage you to contact a Ducks Unlimited lands biologist for more information.

Watch the full Video of this episode of Conservation Ag Update.