Dubuque Soil & Water Conservation district 

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Upcoming Farmer Education:

Join Dubuque SWCD, Dubuque Watershed and IAS as they present a free educational opportunity to farmers on Wednesday July 26, 2026 at 5:00 pm at Locals Bar, Epworth IA. Conservation That Pays: Turning Stewardship into Opportunity, provides an opportunity to learn about the fundamentals of soil health; how conservation practices can be an economic and environmental benefit to the farmer; and learn of available funding opportunities for the farmer. RSVP to Eric Deutmeyer 563-608-9408. Dinner will be provided!

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Become a Soil and Water Commissioner!

Dubuque County offers a unique opportunity to serve as a Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) Commissioner. Commissioners play a vital role in shaping the landscape and communities of Iowa. By establishing priorities for the protection of natural resources and water, they influence decisions that enhance the quality of life in Dubuque County. Their actions and leadership contribute directly to preserving the county’s environmental health and ensuring a sustainable future for all residents.
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Each district is overseen by five commissioners, elected in general elections on a non-partisan basis for four-year terms. No more than two commissioners may live in the same township. Any eligible elector residing in Dubuque County can run for the SWCD commissioner position. Two district commissioner positions are up for election this year.

Commissioners guide soil and water conservation programs within the district and can influence conservation efforts at the state and national levels. Duties include collaborating with the Dubuque County Watershed, directing technical and financial resources to address local needs, promoting conservation through demonstration, education, and outreach, reviewing and mediating soil loss complaints, and assisting with district funds and personnel management.
Commissioners are expected to attend monthly meetings, become familiar with soil and water conservation laws and programs, develop and implement conservation plans, and help oversee financial incentive programs.
Reimbursement for expenses and protection from personal liability are provided.

How to Apply:
The deadline to file candidacy for Dubuque County SWCD Commissioner is 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 26. Nominating petitions can be picked up at the District Office at 210 Bierman Road, Epworth; Dubuque County Auditor’s office, or online at https://elections.dubuquecountyiowa.gov/pages/election-upcoming. Each petition must include signatures from twenty-five (25) county residents. Note that the nominee may not sign their own petition.
All Soil and Water Conservation District programs are offered to the public without discrimination based on race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, marital status, or disability.
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Contact Information:
For further information, contact the Dubuque County Soil and Water Conservation District at 210 Bierman Road, Epworth, IA, call 563-876-3418 ext. 3, or email helen.backes@ia.nacdnet.net.

Century and Heritage Farm Program ​
This program is sponsored by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation. It recognizes families that have owned their farm for 100 years in the case of Century Farms and 150 years for Heritage Farms. Deadline to apply is June 1st. Click here for more information 

Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship Awards
IDALS, CDI, and NRCS along with many of our valuable partners are joining efforts to sponsor a number of awards this year for farmers. Click here for more information about the awards available and nomination forms. 

Iowa Farm Environmental Leader Award​​​​
The Iowa Farm Environmental Leader Award is a joint effort of the Governor, Lt. Governor, Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to recognize the exemplary voluntary efforts of Iowa's farmers as environmental leaders committed to healthy soils and improved water quality. Deadline to apply is May 4th. Click here for more information

Weekly Crop Progress Report & Other IDALS News

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News and Information