October is Porktober!

Innovative Ag Services (IAS) is now accepting applications for its 2026 academic year scholarships, designed to support students pursuing careers in agriculture. These include the IAS Scholarships for member families, the IAS Dependent Scholarship for children of employees, and two special awards—the Jack Friedman and Rick Vaughan Scholarships—honoring IAS’s former CEOs and their lasting contributions to the cooperative and agricultural community.

As fertilizer prices fluctuate, it’s tempting to reduce application rates — but doing so could cost you in yield and long-term soil health. IAS Agronomy Advisors Skott Gent and Dalton Roling explain why proactive soil sampling, accurate yield goals, and strategic fertility planning are essential for maximizing return on investment and crop performance in 2026 and beyond.

As harvest wraps up, it’s the perfect time to plan ahead for soil and water health. IAS Sustainability Lead Kayla Bergman joined AM 1040’s The Big Show for Clean Water Wednesday to share practical fall conservation tips — from reducing tillage and seeding cover crops early to following the 4Rs of nutrient management. These simple steps help protect your fields, boost long-term productivity, and keep Iowa’s water clean.