Special Edition Webinar: Drought Planning and Response in Livestock Operations

By Alena Whitaker

 The Iowa Learning Farms conservation webinar taking place Oct. 5 at noon CDT will feature Daniel Andersen, associate professor and extension specialist, Iowa State University. Andersen’s research focuses on livestock manure management and practices that deliver value from manure. In addition, he works on management strategies to improve sustainability and address water quality.

In the webinar, “When Wells Run Short - Options for Livestock Farmers When Water Becomes an Issue,” Andersen will present an overview of current drought conditions in Iowa that are impacting livestock operations. He will discuss options that livestock producers may have if wells begin to run short during drought conditions. Andersen will also offer advice and best practices for developing emergency action plans to respond to critical water shortages.

“Drought is certainly more evident in crop fields, but it can be equally devastating to the livestock producer,” said Andersen. “The past three years of dry weather have left many Iowa streams almost dry, and in some areas well water supplies are below normal. I hope that participants in this webinar will gain insights into options for responding to this trying situation as well as planning steps that can ease impacts before the water runs out.”

Participants are encouraged to ask questions of the presenters. People from all backgrounds and areas of interest are encouraged to join.

How to participate in the webinar

On Wednesday, Oct. 5, shortly before noon CDT:

• Click this link or type https://iastate.zoom.us/j/364284172 into your internet browser.
• Or go to https://iastate.zoom.us/join and enter meeting ID 364 284 172.
• Or join via phone by dialing 312-626-6799; meeting ID 364 284 172.

The webinar will also be recorded and archived. All archived webinars are available on the ILF website, so that they can be watched at any time.
ILF has applied for a Certified Crop Adviser board-approved continuing education unit for attending this webinar. Those who participate in the live webinar are eligible. Information about how to apply to receive the CEU will be provided at the end of the live webinar.

Upcoming webinars in the series

• Oct. 11: “Market District Green Infrastructure: One of the largest urban water quality projects in the Midwest,” with Craig Clarkson, ISG Inc.
• Oct. 18: Jacqueline Comito, Iowa Learning Farms.
• Oct. 25: Christine Eckles, Blank Park Zoo.
• Nov. 1: Jessica Nelson, Iowa State University.

About Iowa Learning Farms

Established in 2004, Iowa Learning Farms is building a Culture of Conservation by encouraging adoption of conservation practices. Farmers, researchers and ILF team members are working together to identify and implement the best management practices that improve water quality and soil health while remaining profitable. Partners of Iowa Learning Farms include the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, and Iowa Department of Natural Resources, EPA Section 319 Grant Program and GROWMARK Inc.