The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association (ICA) applauds the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for announcing $10 million in funding for Iowa’s Working Lands Program through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). The investment will help Iowa cattle producers and farmers implement conservation practices while keeping working lands productive.
“ICA has worked closely with the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) to help advance this program, and we appreciate their willingness to listen to producers, collaborate with ICA, and develop an approach that delivers meaningful results for Iowa’s cattlemen,” said Craig Moss, ICA president. “The Working Lands Program is a great example of what can happen when we work together to address producers’ needs and develop practical solutions that benefit both agriculture and our natural resources.”
ICA has advocated for Iowa’s Working Lands Program, as listed in our top policy priorities, and is proud to support IDALS and Iowa cattle producers in advancing investments that strengthen livestock production and conservation.
The additional funding comes at a critical time, as strong producer demand has demonstrated the value of programs that help farmers and cattle producers incorporate conservation practices into their operations. The previous round of funding was utilized in just 10 days, highlighting the need for continued investment and expanded opportunities for producers.
ICA believes Iowa’s Working Lands Program can serve as a model for future efforts that help producers maintain productive agricultural land while improving soil and water resources.
“We appreciate IDALS’ partnership and Secretary Naig’s leadership in developing a program that responds to Iowa producers’ needs and has the potential to serve as a model for other states,” said Bryan Whaley, ICA CEO. “USDA’s investment is a strong signal that the approach Iowa has developed has value beyond our state. We’re proud to see Iowa leading the way with a program that brings livestock production and conservation together, and we hope it can help shape similar opportunities for producers across the country.”
For more information, visit the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.
