ILF Cooperators Joel and Linda Zwiefel
Producer: Joel and Linda Zwiefel
Location: Fenton, Palo Alto County
Soil Region: 2, Des Moines Lobe
ILF Demonstration: Two Nitrogen rates compared for no-till corn-on-corn
Bio: Joel and Linda Zwiefel have been strip-tilling corn-on-corn for almost 10 years and making it work. They are building residue, increasing yields, organic matter, and earthworm populations.
They were compelled to reduce the amount of chemicals used on their farm as their daughter was diagnosed with lymphoma. One cause of this disease is exposure to chemicals such as pesticides, herbicides or other solvents.
The Zwiefels and two neighbors invested in strip tillage equipment together, making access to the equipment economically feasible. They farm approximately 850 acres, renting all but 170 acres. The couple notes that they have a great relationship with their landlords. They have discussed with them about topsoil loss and no-till and have convinced them that this is the right thing to do.
Building a Culture of Conservation: “No-till improves the organic matter and helps absorb more water. With a heavy rain, the more we can keep attached to roots the less standing water we see.”
The couple believes that networking to get the conservation message out works. Having events such as field days and meetings introduces innovative thinking. “We need to talk to other producers who are successful. They can show us how it worked for them,” said Joel.
“I think no-till can work for anyone,” stated Joel. “But you have to stick with it beyond one year. The longer we do it the better we get at it. We keep testing and experimenting. That’s what makes farming fun. How can we not feel responsible for what happens on our land?”
Contact Information:
Joel and Linda Zwiefel ~ Palo Alto County
103 280th Street
Fenton, IA 50539
515/889-2930
jlzwiefel@netins.net
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