The bill establishes a pilot program aimed at reducing the use of commercial nitrogen-based fertilizers in crop production in Iowa. It creates a new subchapter under Code chapter 466B, which includes definitions for key terms such as "commercial nitrogen-based fertilizer," "qualifying crop production product," and "producer." The program's goal is to encourage farmers to optimize fertilizer application rates and reduce them by either 15 percent or 30 pounds per acre by using cost-effective qualifying crop production products. The division of soil conservation and water quality will administer the program, selecting qualified producers annually and potentially awarding them incentive payments for their participation.

Additionally, the bill creates an innovative nutrient incorporation incentive pilot program fund, which will receive an annual appropriation of $2 million from the general fund starting in the fiscal year 2025-2026 until the program's repeal on December 31, 2030. The division is required to report on the program's status and recommendations by January 15, 2029. Confidentiality provisions are included to protect the identities of participants and the locations of cropland involved in the program. Unencumbered funds remaining upon repeal will be transferred to the Iowa nutrient research fund.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 12C.7