As winter approaches, the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) encourages farmers to consider participating in the Standing Corn Snow Fence Program. This initiative was launched in the 1980s and collaborates with local farmers to keep highways safer during snowy conditions. Farmers along open, flat highways leave rows of corn standing over winter, effectively acting as natural snow fences. These rows slow down or halt snow drifts, reducing the need for costly snow removal. Participating farmers receive $5.65 per bushel for maintaining six to 24 rows of corn, which is nearly two dollars above the average corn price. Round bales can also be used, compensated at $1 per linear foot. The DOT’s Craig Bargfrede, who oversees winter operations, emphasizes the program’s cost-effectiveness, noting that plowing is around 100 times more expensive than the snow fence program. Beyond financial benefits, the program fosters strong partnerships between DOT staff and landowners, improves soil moisture in end rows, controls soil erosion, and provides habitat for wildlife. The DOT is actively seeking more volunteers for this program to improve winter travel conditions. For more information, visit iowadot.gov.
