Farmers have until Friday to apply for funds through the Water Quality Initiative. According to the Washington Soil and Water Conservation District, limited funds are available to help farmers install nutrient reduction strategies, including cover crops, no-till or strip till, or using a nitrification inhibitor when applying fertilizer. Farmers using these practices for the first time will receive priority consideration for assistance and acres are limited to 160 per producer.

The cost share for first-time users of cover crops is $25 per acre, $10 per acre for no-till or strip till, and farmers using nitrification inhibitors when applying fall fertilizer may receive $3 per acre. Farmers are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, as the funds are available until July 24th.

To apply for funding contact the Washington County Soil and Water Conservation District at 1621 East Washington in Washington or call (319) 653-6654.