Integrating farmer input and Agricultural Conservation Planning Framework results to develop watershed plans in Iowa

This paper describes how the Iowa Soybean Association integrates farmer input with Agricultural Conservation Planning Framework (ACPF) results to create watershed plans that advance the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy. The process involves gathering local farmers' priorities through community sessions, using simple water quality modeling to set quantitative objectives, and leveraging ACPF tools to identify suitable locations for implementing conservation practices. A case study from the Headwaters Cedar Creek watershed illustrates how this approach leads to well-supported conceptual plans that blend local knowledge with spatial analysis to target critical conservation actions. The authors emphasize that involving farmers throughout planning, coupled with technical modeling and mapping, accelerates implementation, secures funding, and enhances long-term water quality improvements in Iowa.