by Alena Whitaker

In its recently published annual evaluation report, Iowa Learning Farms highlighted a return to pre-pandemic levels of participation in conservation-centered outreach events and noted expansion of programming and success in engaging with underrepresented demographic groups.

Continuing to build a culture of conservation in its 19th year, ILF brings together and builds community among farmers, landowners, agribusiness, researchers and agency partners through a multifaceted approach to outreach which includes in-person field days, virtual field days and weekly webinars. The full report can be found at iowalearningfarms.org/ilf-reports.

“In 2022, we were able to return to our pre-pandemic level of in-person field days while continuing to deliver virtual field days — a concept we pioneered and honed during the pandemic,” says Jacqueline Comito, director of ILF. “Our strong focus on cultivating and promoting relationships with farmers and others who practice and advocate for conservation and water quality improvement was also bolstered through new events and our weekly webinars. Direct engagement with more than 16,500 Iowans during the year illustrates the broad reach and appeal of our programs.”

Field day feedback (Courtesy of Iowa Learning Farms)

During 2022, Iowa Learning Farms:

True to its mission of listening to the needs of stakeholders, ILF places a strong emphasis on gathering feedback from participants following field days and webinars. In all cases, evaluation responses and data are collected and analyzed to aid in continually improving outreach and programming efforts.

Online participation with Iowa Learning Farms continues to grow. (Courtesy of Iowa Learning Farms)

The report also provides an in-depth look at conservation practice adoption in Iowa, established and emerging trends in implementation of conservation practices and the demographics of those pursuing these solutions most actively. Key findings highlighted in the report include:

To view the report, visit iowalearningfarms.org/ilf-reports.

Whitaker serves as water and natural resources specialist with Iowa Learning Farms and Water Rocks.