The Nature Conservancy in Iowa has named Paige Frautschy as its agriculture program director. Returning to her rural Iowa roots, Frautschy brings a passion for agriculture and conservation along with experience developing programs for TNC Wisconsin to improve soil health and water quality.

In her new role, Frautschy, who is also a certified crop adviser, leads the 4R Plus program. Launched in 2018, 4R Plus provides education and tools for farmers, agronomists and CCAs to use to improve soil health and protect Iowa’s natural resources. The program is supported by more than 50 organizations that are unified with a mission to support farmers’ efforts implementing precise nutrient management and conservation practices.

CCA: Paige Frautsch, who is also a certified crop adviser, will lead the 4R Plus program.

Acknowledging the financial challenges facing agriculture, Frautschy says Iowa’s hardworking farmers need creative solutions to grow food and protect the environment. “I am pleased to be in a position where I can lead an initiative that supports farmers’ efforts to keep their businesses viable and successful in a changing world.”

Nutrient management, water quality

In her previous role as agriculture strategies manager for TNC Wisconsin, Frautschy worked alongside farmers, ag industry professionals and fellow TNC staff to promote sustainable ag practices across the state.

“She was successful working with various public and private organizations to elevate the importance of how soil health and water quality are tied together, which equips her to hit the ground running with the 4R Plus program,” says Susanne Hickey, Iowa TNC director of conservation programs.

“I’m confident that along with her experience and skills, as well as her passion for agriculture and the environment, Paige Frautschy will build on the successes of the 4R Plus program,” Hickey says.

Frautschy received her bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Northern Iowa and a master’s in agroecology from the University of Wisconsin. Her graduate work involved assessing the potential of pearl millet as a cover crop in the Wisconsin Central Sands.

“I am excited to return to Iowa where my love for agriculture and conservation began. I look forward to working with farmers and 4R Plus supporters to elevate awareness about soil health, nutrient management and water quality,” Frautschy says. “Iowa farmers are blessed with rich soil, and strive to be sustainable by managing their resources to grow food for the world now and in the future.”

Source: 4R Plus, which is solely responsible for the information provided and is wholly owned by the source. Informa Business Media and all its subsidiaries are not responsible for any of the content in this information asset.