Conferences
Water Quality and Tile Drainage Workshop Series for Women in Ag
Ryan Drollette, Charles Brown, Rebecca Vittetoe, and Kristina TeBockhorst
Summary
Women play an essential role in agriculture. Based on a recent work by Schultz et al., 92 percent of women farmland owners are in a decision-making role (M. Schultz, 2022). Additionally, 47 percent of all acres and 55 percent of all leased acres in Iowa are owned by women (W. Zhang, 2018). Therefore, improving women in agriculture’s knowledge level and decision-making confidence in tile drainage and water quality can directly improve the productivity and sustainability of agricultural land.
Two short workshops were developed to build an understanding of tile drainage and water quality practices. The workshops teach the basics of subsurface tile drainage, the economics of tile, landowner-tenant agreements, water quality challenges, and water quality practices. Workshops utilized teaching methods to promote long-term learning, including real scenarios and hands-on demonstrations. Workshops have been conducted in partnership with local government and environmental agencies to bring in expertise on conservation programs and cost-share opportunities.
Assessments by respondents reported that the workshops helped them better understand the basics and economics of tile drainage, water quality practices, and cost-share opportunities. All respondents reported that the workshops helped them feel more confident working with either a tenant or landlord on conservation goals. Respondents also reported that the workshops helped them feel more confident in their decisions about water quality and conservation. Respondents reported that they plan to use the knowledge they gained in the workshops to make changes, either on the farms they rent, own, or with the clients they serve.
Details
| Conference | 2024 Extension Risk Management Education National Conference |
| Presentation Type | 30-minute Concurrent |