Farmers Can Apply for PFI Program That Helps Cover Crops Pencil Out

Without your donation, some stories vanish. Support Decorah News. AMES, Iowa — Midwestern farmers looking to make cover crops pencil out can now apply for Practical Farmers of Iowa's 2026 cover crop cost-share program. The program provides $15 per acre on an unlimited number of acres of fall-seeded cover crops, plus one-on-one agronomic support. "We know cover crops can reduce erosion, suppress weeds and improve soil health, but the upfront cost can keep farmers from trying them or expanding acres," said Sean Dengler, PFI's crop nutrition coordinator. "This program helps offset the cost while giving farmers the support they need to make cover crops work on their farm." In 2025, more than 2,400 farmers received $10 million in PFI cost-share funding to plant cover crops on more than 900,000 acres. "Each year, thousands of farmers use this program because they've seen the value cover crops bring to their farms," Dengler said. "Whether the goal is improving water infiltration, reducing erosion, suppressing weeds or strengthening the operation for the next generation, the program helps farmers take the next step with confidence." Both first-time and experienced cover crop users are encouraged to apply. Conventional corn and soybean farmers in Iowa and parts of Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, South Dakota and Wisconsin are eligible. The application takes about 10 minutes to complete. Farmers can combine the cost-share with other publicly funded programs, including IDALS WQI, NRCS EQIP or CSP. Participants also receive a complimentary one-year PFI membership, connecting them with a community of experienced cover crop users and practical resources to help answer their questions. Nebraska row crop and livestock farmer Brian Brhel has participated in the cost-share program since 2023. "Using plants as a tool to release nutrients, compete against weed pressure and shade the soil is something I believe in," Brhel said. "PFI's assistance to continue learning in this space is important and appreciated." Enrollment is first-come, first-served and will close once available acres are filled. Full details and the application form are available at practicalfarmers.org/cover-crop-cost-share. Funding for this program is made possible by PepsiCo and Cargill. About Practical Farmers: Practical Farmers of Iowa is a nonprofit with more than 9,000 members that equips farmers to build resilient farms and communities. The organization creates learning opportunities through farmer-led events, on-farm research and educational content through its network of farmers. It also provides funding and technical assistance to help farmers adopt regenerative farming practices and grow farm businesses. Its vision is an Iowa with healthy soil, healthy food, clean air, clean water, resilient farms and vibrant communities. To learn more, visit practicalfarmers.org. Get the inside scoop! Subscribe to the free DecorahNews.com newsletter and receive local news, expert analysis, and stories that matter most—straight to your inbox.