Cover crop workshops are being held across Iowa throughout the month by Iowa Learning Farms and Practical Farmers of Iowa. One workshop will be held in Washington on Thursday, November 20th. Cover crops are plants including small grains and legumes that are planted between cash crop seasons to keep a living cover on the landscape. According to Practical Farmers of Iowa, the cover crops help protect soil and water quality, reduce chemical input costs, improve wildlife habitat and boost yields.

The local event will cover a range of topics including using selecting the right cover crop, enhancing soil and water quality and the effects of cover crops on soil health. The workshop will feature local farmers who use cover crops, experts from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and others.

The Washington event will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Rob Stout farm at 2449 Hemlock Avenue. RSVP is requested by November 14th. All workshops are free and include a complimentary lunch. Please RSVP to Iowa Learning Farms, 515-294-8912 or email: ilf@iastate.edu.