Iowans interested in water quality can learn about Iowa laws that regulate the land application of manure and related information that helps manure applicators comply with those laws.

Iowa State University (ISU) Extension is offering a free, two-hour educational program for manure applicators that is open to the general public. The program is being offered in several Iowa counties this month.

The manure applicator recertification workshops are offered at no charge for anyone wanting to attend, however, applicators are required to submit the appropriate paperwork and fees to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to meet certification requirements.

Whether it's part of your job or you simply have an interest in good stewardship practices and Iowa regulations, Confinement Site Manure Applicator Training classes being hosted by county Extension offices through February can provide information about rules and good practices. A complete list of training offerings is available at http://www.agronext.iastate.edu/immag/certification/08confdates.html

Extension provides the annual education in compliance with DNR regulations and determines program content with assistance from DNR and Extension crops, livestock and agricultural engineer field specialists. Topics covered at 2008 trainings include land application rules, mortality management and investigating confinement site issues.

Iowa law requires confinement site manure applicators to attend two hours of continuing education each year of their three-year certification period, or take and pass an exam once every three years. This is the tenth year that ISU Extension has offered the training in cooperation with DNR.

For more information about the training, contact your county Extension office.