Learn About Sustainable Ag on July 24

The Director of the Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture at Iowa State University, Fred Kirschenmann, will present an introduction to sustainable agriculture during a July 24 field day that helps launch a new two-year program at Marshalltown Community College (MCC).

The Leopold Center has offered a $25,000 challenge grant to MCC for its Sustainable & Entrepreneurial Agriculture program that will begin in the fall. The program and other training at Iowa Value Continuing Education will be the focus of a Practical Farmers of Iowa field day July 24 at the Grimes Farm near Marshalltown.

Presentations are scheduled from 1 to 5 p.m., followed by a tour of the farm and supper featuring locally produced Hispanic foods beginning at 6 p.m.

• Linda Barnes, Marshalltown Community College, Training Opportunities for Farmers;

• Dana Holland, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Conservation Practices and Programs for Your Farm;

• Sally Wilson, Marshall County Extension, Resources for Sustainable Agriculture; and

• Penny Brown-Huber, Your Small Farm Business Plan.

Marshalltown Community College and Iowa Valley Continuing Education have been working jointly to meet the training needs of area farmers to assist them in taking advantage of emerging markets in local and specialty agricultural products. Classes focus on maintaining a healthy environment while improving the rural economy. Training opportunities are offered on an ongoing basis for non-credit through Iowa Valley Continuing Education.

The MCC program will offer the first two-year degree in sustainable agriculture in the Midwest. The Leopold Center is a major supporter of the PFI on-farm demonstration and program of summer and fall field days.

The Grimes Farm is located off Hwy 30 at the Highland Acres Road exit going north. Turn left on 233 Street and the Grimes Farm will be on the right. For more information, contact Iowa Valley Continuing Education, (641) 752-4645 or Practical Farmers of Iowa, (515) 232-5661.