Secretary Naig Opens Sign-Up Window for Iowa’s Crop Insurance Discount Program

Dec 02, 2025

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig announced today that the sign-up is now open for the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship’s (IDALS) annual Crop Insurance Discount Program. The innovative program offers farmers a $5 per acre premium reduction for fall-planted cover crops.

“This program continues to showcase Iowa's focus and leadership in conservation, and we've made it easy to enroll online,” said Secretary Naig. “If you planted cover crops this fall, get those acres signed up to save money on your 2026 crop insurance premiums. Even in a tough economy, cover crops can be a smart business and environmental decision. It’s a simple way for farmers to keep building momentum with cover crops while saving money.”

The online sign-up is open Dec. 1, 2025, through Jan. 23, 2026. Participants should enroll at apply.cleanwateriowa.org by contacting their crop insurance agent.

Source : iowaagriculture.gov

Video: Midwest Weather Shock: Flash Drought Turns Into Heavy Rain Threat This Week (2026 Forecast)

A rapidly changing Midwest weather pattern is unfolding in 2026 as areas that recently slipped into abnormal dryness and flash drought conditions are now facing the threat of heavy rain and repeated storm systems.

After a wet spring erased early drought conditions, regions across Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and northern Missouri have quickly dried out again since mid-to-late May. Soil moisture is dropping fast, and crops like corn and soybeans are beginning to feel the stress of rising temperatures and lack of consistent rainfall. Now, weather models show a major shift.

A developing system moving in from the Northern Plains is expected to bring multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms, with the potential for locally heavy rainfall across the Midwest. While some areas may miss out, others could finally see much-needed relief from the growing dryness. In this video, we break down:

Current drought conditions across the Midwest

Why a flash drought is developing quickly

Timing and path of incoming storm systems

Which states are most likely to see heavy rain

How long this wet pattern could last

Will this rain end the drought or create new flooding risks? Watch the full forecast to find out.