AMES, Iowa ? Harold and Kay Whipple, along with Iowa Learning Farms, will co-host "Conservation Conversations on the Prairie" at the Whipples' farm in rural Lacona on Tuesday, July 19, beginning at 3 p.m. The event is free and the public is invited to attend, but registration is required. The Warren Soil and Water Conservation District is a sponsor for the event as well.
The evening will offer an opportunity for area residents and conservation organization representatives to network with one another and explore new partnerships and projects to enhance conservation in Iowa. The Iowa Learning Farms Conservation Station will be on site to aid in the discussion of why quality soils and clean water are so important to Iowa's future. Also, the Whipples will conduct walking or riding tours of their recently restored prairie. There will be a time for discussion of ideas for working together to improve and enhance conservation practices in Iowa prior to a complimentary dinner.
The Whipples have worked ? and continue to work ? to create a diverse, productive and sustainable property. They have put in a pond and windbreaks, 25 acres of prairie, thousands of trees and shrubs, as well as some corn and soybean acres used mainly for wildlife food plots. Their land includes hundreds of plant species, which draw a diverse collection of birds, mammals and insects. They are very proud of the increased bluebird population since their work began.
To register for this event, contact Harold or Kay Whipple by email, hkwhip@iowatelecom.net, or phone, 641-534-3039, by July 12. The Whipples' farm is located at 22307 Highway S23; one-half mile north of the intersection of G76 and S23 in Lacona. Look for the "Bluebird Family Farm" sign.
Iowa Learning Farms (ILF) is building a Culture of Conservation, encouraging adoption of residue management and conservation practices. Farmers, researchers and ILF staff are working together to encourage farmers to implement the best in-field management practices that increase water and soil quality while remaining profitable.
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