The public is invited to a “Conservation On Tap” event on Thursday, Mar. 19, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Brightside Aleworks 480 Center Place, Altoona, Iowa. The event will provide local farmers, landowners and urban residents with a chance to discuss and ask questions. There will be an opportunity for networking following the event.

Presenters will include Matt Helmers, Iowa Nutrient Research Center Director, and Mark Licht, associate professor and cropping systems specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach. Andrew Frana, founder and co-owner of Brightside Aleworks. They will begin the discussion by highlighting the importance of water quality in the brewing process. The event is hosted by Iowa Learning Farms.

“Our intent with this event is to help build community through encouraging farmers, landowners and urban residents to talk about topics important within the community — what keeps them up at night, what challenges they see with conservation practices and what they want to learn more about,” said Liz Ripley, Iowa Learning Farms conservation and cover crop outreach specialist. “There will be no formal presentations or agenda, just a chance to talk, ask questions, listen and learn while enjoying a beverage and provided food. We are looking forward to learning alongside everyone else who attends.”

The event is open the the public at no cost. To ensure adequate space and food, RSVPs are requested by Mar. 12 by calling 515-294-5429 or contacting ilf@iastate.edu.