AMES, Iowa – Subsurface drainage, commonly known as ag tile systems, is an important part of farming systems in Iowa.
The upcoming 2008 Drainage Design Workshops will cover the basics of building or retrofitting current systems and introduce new technologies, such as bioreactors, controlled drainage and wetlands, that reduce the negative environmental effects of tiling systems.
“While drainage systems are important and many times essential for crop production, we need to understand the water quality effects of subsurface drainage and methods to minimize potential consequences on downstream water bodies” said Matt Helmers, Iowa State University (ISU) Extension agricultural engineer.
The same workshop will be offered at four locations. All programs begin at 9:30 a.m. and adjourn at 3 p.m. The dates and locations are listed below.
- Feb. 29, Jefferson County Extension Office, 2606 West Burlington Avenue, Fairfield
- March 5, Butler County Extension Office, 320 N. Main Street, Allison
- March 7, Clover Hall, Greene County Fairgrounds, Jefferson
- March 18, Calhoun County Extension Office, 521 4th Street, Rockwell City
The program is sponsored by Iowa State University Extension and industry partners.
The pre-registration fee, including lunch and refreshments, is $35 for those registered one week in advance of the program. Registrations after the pre-registration deadline will be $45.
Registration information is available online at: http://www.abe.iastate.edu/events-and-seminars/events.html or by calling (515) 294-6717.
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