Iowa Learning Farms, in partnership with Iowa Monarch Conservation Consortium and Iowa State University Extension, will host a pasture restoration and monarch habitat field day Sept. 10 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Nathan Anderson’s farm near Cherokee. The event is free, open to the whole family and includes a complimentary meal.

The field day will begin on the Anderson Farm where host farmer, Anderson, will lead the group on a walking tour to the pasture being restored to native species of grasses and forbs to help improve the pasture performance and livestock health. Anderson will share information on how he began the restoration process and the resources he used, as well as the benefits and challenges he has faced during the process. Adam Janke, ISU Extension and Outreach wildlife specialist, will discuss opportunities for wildlife habitat around the farm including establishing monarch habitat and the impacts of pasture restoration on bird, mammal and other wildlife in the area. The field day will conclude with a complimentary meal back at the farm site.

The field day will be held at Nathan Anderson’s farm, 1950 520th St., Cherokee. From Cherokee, head east on IA 3/530th St. for three miles. Turn north on T Ave./M10 for 1 mile. Turn left on 520th St. for 1/2 mile and the farm will be located on the south side of the road. The event is free and open to the whole family, but reservations are suggested to ensure adequate space and food. Please RSVP to Liz Juchems at 515-294-5429 or ilf@iastate.edu.

For mobility accommodations to the pasture, please contact Liz Juchems at 515-294-5429 or ilf@iastate.edu by Thursday, Sept. 5.

Iowa Learning Farms field days and workshops are supported by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. For more information about Iowa Learning Farms, visit www.iowalearningfarms.org.