Red Cedar Conservation Farmers (RCCF)
Formed in 2019, the Red Cedar Conservation Farmers (RCCF) came together in response to growing concerns about phosphorous runoff into Lakes Tainter and Menomin and the mounting pressure on farmers to reduce their environmental impact. What began as a focused effort to curb phosphorus loss quickly expanded to include reducing nitrogen runoff as well.
Who They Are
Red Cedar Conservation Farmers are a group of farmers in Dunn, Barron, and Chippewa Counties that work together to provide learning opportunities and encourage the use of certain farming practices. See the RCCF Trifold Brochure for more information.
The Watershed
The Red Cedar Conservation Farmers cover land that flows into Hay, Popple, Trout, Eddies, Sand, Bronken, and Eighteenmile Creeks. All of the creeks flow into the Red Cedar River. While the watershed spans into part of Barron and Chippewa Counties, it is primarily located in Dunn County.
Investing in Clean Water
Through the Department of Ag, Trade, and Consumer Protection (DATCP) Producer-led Watershed Protection Grant and other grants, the RCCF allocates funds for:
- Drinking water well sampling and surface water monitoring
- Educational events including field days and workshops
- Conservation practices like soil nitrate testing, no till, cover crops, nitrogen stabilizers and more
Experimentation & Demonstration
The group actively promotes on-farm trials and demonstration plots to explore new techniques. These efforts help farms in the area make informed decisions while protecting the watershed for future generations. Results from the research conducted in 2023 and 2024 through the DATCP Commercial Nitrogen Optimization Pilot Program can be found here:
Want to connect with the RCCF and find out about future events?
Follow them on Facebook
Check this link out for general information on Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE):