The 49th general signup for the Conservation Reserve Program is under way. The program gives landowners and farmers who want to protect environmentally sensitive land the chance to bring back pheasants, plant woodland or improve water quality.
More than 800 contracts encompassing nearly 22,000 acres expire in Iowa this fall, giving landowners the first opportunity to bid land back into the Conservation Reserve Program since June 2013. Landowners have until Feb. 26 to make an offer. For technical help or to learn more, go to www.iowadnr.gov/crp or visit your local USDA office.