Visit our website at www.livingwithenergyiniowa.com

Win a Cuisinart® Green Gourmet Electric Skillet! See Page 5

Do skylights bring sky-high energy bills?

LIHEAP funding announced

Soups & stews for cooler temps

How Iowans are

helping monarchs

S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 8

2 LIVING WITH ENERGY IN IOWA September 2018

Volume 71 • Issue 9E D I T O R

Ann Thelen

A R T D I R E C T O RJoel Clifton

________________________

E X E C U T I V E V I C E P R E S I D E N TChuck Soderberg

D I R E C T O R O F C O M M U N I C AT I O N SErin Campbell

B O A R D O F D I R E C T O R SSteve Seidl, Coon Rapids – President

Don Shonka, Independence – Vice PresidentLarry White, Mount Pleasant – Secretary/Treasurer

Roger Solomonson, Leland – Asst. Secretary/TreasurerGordon Greimann, Sheffield

Neal Heldt, MallardDarrell Jensen, Menlo

Marion Denger, Dows – NRECA RepresentativeCarmen Hosack, Harlan ________________________

Living with Energy in Iowa magazine (ISSN: 1935-7176) is published monthly by the Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives, a not-for-profit organization representing Iowa’s member-owned local electric cooperatives. Association address: 8525 Douglas Ave., Suite 48, Des Moines, IA 50322-2992. The phrase Living with Energy in Iowa is a mark registered within the state of Iowa to the Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives. The magazine does not accept advertising.

Editorial Office: 8525 Douglas Ave., Suite 48, Des Moines, IA 50322-2992. Telephone: 515-276-5350. E-mail address: editor@livingwithenergyiniowa.com. Letters may be edited for clarity and length before publication. Living with Energy in Iowa magazine does not assume responsibility for unsolicited items.

Website: www.livingwithenergyiniowa.com

Postmaster: Send address changes to Living with Energy in Iowa magazine, 8525 Douglas Ave., Suite 48, Des Moines, IA 50322-2992. Periodicals Postage Paid at Des Moines, Iowa, and at additional mailing offices.

Change of Address: Every local electric cooperative maintains an independent mailing list of its members, so please send your change of address directly to your local electric cooperative’s office. Living with Energy in Iowa magazine cannot make an address change for you.

© Copyright 2018, Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives. No portion of the editorial, photographic or other content of Living with Energy in Iowa magazine or its website may be reproduced without written permission of the editor.

Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives

Features

6 Do skylights bring sky-high energy bills? An area in your home needs some

natural light. You’ve been thinking about installing a skylight, but are wondering if it will increase your energy bills. As you weigh the options, consider our tips.

8 Fall in love with soups and stews Just in time for fall, find some of our

readers’ favorite soup and stew recipes. PLUS: Receive a $25 credit on your power bill if we include your healthy recipe in a future issue.

10 How Iowans are helping monarchs Iowa’s electric cooperatives are

members of a consortium dedicated to expanding monarch habitat on the state’s agricultural land, urban areas, roadsides and other public land.

C O N T E N T S S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 8

Favorites

3 Statewide Perspective Iowa’s Empower Rural Iowa

Initiative.

5 Editor’s Choice Contest Win a Cuisinart® Electric Skillet!

14 Energy Assistance LIHEAP funding announced.

15 Out Back Understanding Farmer

Directions.

6

8

10

ON THE COVER

Scott Nelson is the director of the Harrison County Conservation Board, which manages more than 1,800 acres throughout the county and is served by Harrison County Rural Electric Cooperative. Just a few miles west of the electric co-op office is the Willow Lake Recreation Area, where the conservation board actively manages more than 35 acres of pollinator and monarch habitat.

www.livingwithenergyiniowa.com

Have you seen our website?

September 2018 LIVING WITH ENERGY IN IOWA 3

S T A T E W I D E P E R S P E C T I V E

Iowa’s electric co-ops are encouraged by Gov. Reynolds’ Empower Rural Iowa InitiativeBY RAND FISHER

In late July, Gov. Kim Reynolds signed Executive Order No. 3 establishing the Empower Rural Iowa Initiative. At the heart of this action was the recognition that Iowa is comprised largely of small towns and rural places – many of which are served by electric cooperatives – that are vital to the long-term success of our state.

The governor, who grew up in the small community of St. Charles declared, “the State of Iowa will be well served by taking a new, innovative approach to addressing the needs and desires of its rural residents. The Empower Rural Iowa Initiative will be tasked with finding concrete solutions to the unique challenges and opportunities that exist in rural Iowa.”

In further explaining the purpose of the executive order, Reynolds said the initiative will be aimed at identifying legislative, regulatory and policy ideas that can encourage investment, increase opportunities and enhance the quality of life for rural residents. While noting that an initiative such as this must be a long-term and sustained effort, the governor hopes several new ideas and recommendations can be ready for consideration when the 2019 Iowa General Assembly begins on Jan. 14.

Speaking at the Iowa Area Development Group (IADG) Partners Forum last month, Lt. Gov. Adam Gregg used the occasion to explore the strategic framework for the Empower Rural Iowa Initiative. He explained that the following three task forces will be established:

The Investing in Rural Iowa Task Force. This group will review existing policies and programs, as well as consider new programs and partnerships that can encourage new or expanded investments in rural

Iowa. Special emphasis will be placed on Iowa’s rural housing needs.

The Growing Rural Iowa Task Force. The scope of this task force may be the broadest. This group will consider ideas, policies or initiatives designed to encourage and develop the next generation of leaders for rural communities and to encourage community strategic planning. The group’s efforts will also be aimed at rural quality of life, retaining and recruiting a talented workforce, and welcoming back former Iowans.

The Connecting Rural Iowa Task Force. This task force will be riveted in on broadband connectivity for rural Iowa. Policy and program assessment will be undertaken, and emphasis will be given to regulatory barriers, funding streams and partnerships that can encourage broadband

buildout and enhancements throughout the state.             

Lt. Gov. Gregg went out of his way to make a point clear – the Empower Rural Iowa Initiative is not and will not be an effort to separate or divide rural and urban Iowa. “We’re better and stronger united and working together,” he said.    

Lt. Gov. Gregg praised the Iowa Area Development Group and especially Iowa’s electric cooperatives and rural utilities who make possible its mission of business and community development. In addressing the large crowd of IADG partners, which included electric cooperative and utility executives and staff, economic development professionals and rural community leaders, Lt. Gov. Gregg said he will look to the group for input and ideas.

Rand Fisher is president of the Iowa Area Development Group, which provides business and community support on behalf of nearly 220 Iowa electric and telecommunications utilities.

Lt. Gov. Adam Gregg spoke at IADG’s Partners Forum in August.

4 LIVING WITH ENERGY IN IOWA September 2018

R E N E W A B L E E N E R G Y

Cooperative breaks ground on wind energy center

State and local leaders and landowners recently joined executives from NextEra Energy Resources, a subsidiary of NextEra Energy, Inc. and Central Iowa Power Cooperative (CIPCO) to break ground on Iowa’s newest renewable energy project – the Heartland Divide Wind Energy Center. The project is expected to create hundreds of construction jobs and bring millions of dollars in economic benefits to the region.

“We look forward to delivering wind-generated clean energy to consumer-members within our electric cooperative member system,” said CIPCO CEO Bill Cherrier. “The Heartland Divide Wind Energy Center helps CIPCO provide our members with the balanced energy portfolio we know they want. Among electric cooperatives, CIPCO and our members are proud of our 60 percent carbon-free, emission-free portfolio. We’re also thrilled about the economic impact a project of this scale has to members’ local communities.”

CIPCO will purchase 100 percent of the energy produced by the Heartland Divide Wind Energy Center, or 103.5 megawatts, representing CIPCO’s largest wind energy project to date.

The Heartland Divide Wind Energy

Center will provide an economic boost for Audubon and Guthrie counties, creating approximately 200 jobs during the construction phase this year and up to five full-time jobs to support the project once it becomes operational in December 2018.

An affiliate of NextEra Energy Resources will build, own and operate the project. The energy will serve members of CIPCO through a 20-year power purchase agreement.

The Heartland Divide Wind Energy Center will feature 43 GE wind turbines designed to pivot to capture the prevailing wind and convert it to clean, renewable electricity.

Wind energy represents a clean, renewable source of energy that creates no greenhouse gases or other air pollutants, uses no water resources to generate electricity and creates no waste by-products.

Q U O T E O F T H E M O N T H

“We are excited to see the Heartland Divide Wind Energy Center being built in Audubon County. This project has already created a great deal of enthusiasm and positive economic activity in our community. The extra tax revenue it generates will go a long way to help our county enhance our schools, roads and essential services.”

Rick Thompson, Audubon County supervisor, speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Heartland Divide Wind Energy Center. The project is expected to provide more than $40 million in property taxes to Audubon and Guthrie counties over its first 30 years of operation and more than $16 million in payments to local landowners.

When Prairie Energy Cooperative linemen Kelly Kopaska and Andrew Stupka were driving by a member-owner’s house while restoring power after a storm, they saw two twin boys standing, cheering and waving. They honked and made Waylon’s and Wyatt’s day. Their mom, Julie Brogaard, is the daughter of Doyce Pringnitz, one of Prairie Energy’s directors (2009-2015) who passed away in 2016. The cooperative connection runs deep. The twins’ best buddies are twin boys of another Prairie Energy lineman, Tanner Riedesel. Julie says that every month when Living with Energy in Iowa comes out they page through it looking for pictures of their Grandpa Doyce or Tanner. They’ll sure be surprised to see themselves in this issue!

P O W E R F U L I M A G E

September 2018 LIVING WITH ENERGY IN IOWA 5

Celebrate family meals with an electric skillet!

September is National Family Meals Month! The Cuisinart® Green Gourmet 14-inch Electric Skillet is a powerful, environmentally friendly electric skillet that lets you sear, fry, griddle, simmer or braise with little or no oil or butter for healthier family dinners. The interior of the skillet is a petroleum-free ceramic-based cooking surface that contains no PTFE or PFOA. Its oversized round cooking surface accommodates family-sized batches of your favorite dishes!

The suggested retail price is approximately $130. For details go to www.williams-sonoma.com/products/cuisinart-electric-skillet/.

Visit our website and win!Enter this month’s contest for the Cuisinart®

Electric Skillet by visiting the Living with Energy in Iowa website at www.livingwithenergyiniowa.com no later than Sept. 30, 2018.

You must be a member of one of Iowa’s electric cooperatives to win. There’s no obligation associated with entering, we don’t share entrant information with anyone and multiple entries from the same account will be disqualified. The winner of the cordless compact drill/driver kit in the July issue was Donald Kruse, North West REC.

I N T H E C O M M U N I T Y

Gov. Reynolds attends ribbon cutting for project financed by electric cooperatives

Gov. Kim Reynolds recently spoke at a ribbon cutting ceremony for a new spec building in the Spirit Lakes Industrial Park, noting the value of economic development.

Built in partnership with the Iowa Lakes Corridor Development Corporation with funding from Iowa Lakes Electric Cooperative (ILEC) and Corn Belt Power Cooperative, the new building offers 30,000 square feet and is located along Highway 9 on the east side of Spirit Lake. ILEC received a $300,000 Rural Economic Development Grant from the USDA Rural Development and matched it with $60,000. ILEC and Corn Belt Power provided additional funding from their respective Revolving Loan Funds.

Jim Vermeer, vice president of business development for Corn Belt Power, also spoke at the ribbon cutting. He said, “Having an available building attracts new businesses to locate within the area or allows an existing business to expand. It provides a three-to-six-month jump start when a project needs to be up and going in a short period of time.

Many of our spec buildings have helped local businesses take the leap of faith and expand into a newer and larger building that will meet their future needs.”

Approximately 30 people attended the ribbon cutting. The building is finished and is listed for sale. Information courtesy of Corn Belt Power Cooperative; photo courtesy of Marena Fritzler of Corn Belt Power Cooperative.

E D I T O R ’ S C H O I C E C O N T E S T

StraightTalk® Images License Policy NRECA voting members (“Members”) have the right to use, distribute, reproduce, publish, and publicly display in any media whatsoever (“Use”) any graphic contained in the Straight Talk library (“Graphics”) for the purpose of promoting their business. Members are permitted to modify Graphics for the purpose of incorporating their respective names and logos within a Graphic. Members are also permitted to resize or alter the layout of a Graphic to fit the dimensional needs of a particular publication; however, Members shall neither crop nor edit the Graphics as to substantially change or modify the original design. Members are not permitted to Use only portions of a Graphic. Members also may not sub-license, sell, lease, or rent Graphics to third parties. Members must include any attribution or source language if any is contained in the original file. If you have a questions pertaining to this Policy, please contact Abby Berry at abby.berry@nreca.coop or 571-319-6231.

work anarvest se brings hcan be an exhausting, but rusushingan be an austing, the job to save time can be extremely extremthe job t e time cdangerous (even deadly!) when) whendanger even de

king near overhead power power worki ear overes. We urge farm operatorseratorslines urge far

nd workers to keep ththe and kers to kollowing safety tips in mind: in mindfol ng safety

Tips for a Safe Harvest

Source: SafeElectricity.org

Use care when operating large machinery near power lines.  

Inspect the height of equip-ment to determine clearance.

Always keep equipment at least 10 feet away (in all directions) from power lines.

Remember to lower extensions when moving loads.

If a power line is sagging or looks to be dangerously low, please call us immediately.

Harvest season brings hard work and can be an exhausting, but rushing the job to save time can be extremely dangerous (even deadly!) when working near overhead power lines. We urge farm operators and workers to keep the following safety tips in mind:

Tips for a Safe Harvest

Source: SafeElectricity.org

Use care when operating large machinery near power lines.  

Inspect the height of equip-ment to determine clearance.

Always keep equipment at least 10 feet away (in all directions) from power lines.

Remember to lower extensions when moving loads.

If a power line is sagging or looks to be dangerously low, please call us immediately.

6 LIVING WITH ENERGY IN IOWA September 2018

An area in your home needs some natural light. You’ve been thinking about installing a skylight, but are wondering if it will increase your energy bills. As you weigh the options, consider these things.

Skylights can bring a little of the outside world indoors and make your living space more livable – when they are installed correctly. But they can also impact your energy bills and comfort level, so you’re taking the right steps by doing some research ahead of time.

One downside of skylights is they can add heat to your home during the summer and heat loss during the winter.

The amount of impact depends upon several elements, including the skylight’s energy rating, size, placement and quality of installation. You can check its energy efficiency by looking at the skylight’s NFRC Energy Performance Label, which shows four important pieces of the energy efficiency puzzle:

Insulation value (U-Factor)

Ability to transmit solar heat (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient)

Ability to allow light to transfer (Visible Transmittance)

Air leakageFinding a unit with

the best ratings in all these categories will

help maximize your skylight’s energy efficiency and performance. It’s probably worth spending a little more on a better product since professional installation takes up the lion’s share of the cost of

installing a skylight into an existing roof. That said, even the best skylight has a much lower insulation value than a properly insulated attic.

Just as important as finding the right skylight

Do skylights bring sky-high energy bills?BY PAT KEEGAN AND BRAD THIESSEN

September 2018 LIVING WITH ENERGY IN IOWA 7

is determining the proper size, number and placement. You want adequate light, but too much can make a room less functional on a bright day. Skylights on a steep, north-facing roof will reduce the unwanted solar heat gain in the summer, but this also reduces the desirable solar heat gain in winter.

Ultraviolet (UV) light can cause furniture finishes to fade. This can be minimized by making sure your skylight has high-quality glazing or by applying a special film to the skylight.

Proper installation by a knowledgeable professional is essential to avoid all-too-common problems. One serious issue is water leaks – a problem often caused by improper exterior installation on the roof. Flashing must be installed correctly to be effective for the pitch of the roof and the type of roofing materials.

Another potential problem area is the skylight shaft that transmits the light into the living space below. Inadequate or poorly installed insulation

is a source of heat loss and can cause ice dams that allow water to find its way into the home. Air leaks in the shaft can also cause these types of problems. Moisture problems can cause condensation build-up inside the home, resulting in mold, mildew and rot (especially in bathrooms).

An alternative option to the regular skylight is the tubular skylight. A small skylight on the roof is connected to a flexible tube that runs through the attic to a room below. This system provides a diffused natural light. The tube is much smaller than a skylight shaft and is easier and less expensive to install. The tube has less heat loss and is less leak-prone. Tubular skylights can fit into spaces that a traditional skylight can’t and can be a better choice in rooms with high moisture, like bathrooms, saunas or indoor swimming pools.

As you consider your options, it may be worthwhile to think back to your goals. Perhaps you can gain more light in these

rooms without installing a skylight by trying these steps:

Paint the room a lighter color

Hang mirrors Replace heavy window coverings with lighter ones

Add indirect lighting such as upward-facing pole lamps

Trim any trees that shade the windows

If you’ve done your research and decide to move forward with new skylights, we hope you will consider buying the best product your budget will accommodate – and find a contractor with experience and solid references to provide the installation. This column was written by Pat Keegan and Brad Thiessen of Collaborative Efficiency.

This skylight shaft inside the

attic has been air-sealed and is ready to be

insulated.

Photo Credit: U.S. Department of Energy

Tubular skylights collect light through an acrylic dome on the roof and transmit it through a highly reflective tube into the space below.

Photo Credit: Collaborative Efficiency

The NFRC label shows insulation value, resistance to heat gain, air leakage and how much light will enter the room.

Source: NFRC

Do skylights bring sky-high energy bills?BY PAT KEEGAN AND BRAD THIESSEN

8 LIVING WITH ENERGY IN IOWA September 2018

Easy Crockpot Potato Soup 1 32-ounce bag diced hash browns 32 ounces chicken broth 1 can cream of chicken soup 8 ounces cream cheese 3 ounces real bacon pieces  1 cup cheddar cheese Salt and pepper to taste

Put hash browns, broth, soup, bacon pieces, salt and pepper in crock pot on low for 5 to 6 hours. Once hash browns are tender add cream cheese (cut in small pieces). Stir every 15 minutes until melted. Serve topped with shredded cheese and bacon pieces.

Carma Mack ∙ AudubonRaccoon Valley Electric Cooperative

Old-Fashioned Veggie Soup 21/2 tablespoons olive oil 11/2 cups chopped onion 2 cups peeled and chopped carrots 11/4 cups chopped celery 4 cloves minced garlic 4 14.5-ounce cans of chicken or vegetable broth 2 14.5-ounce cans diced tomatoes 3 cups peeled and 1/2 inch thick diced potatoes 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley 2 bay leaves 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

salt and pepper to taste 11/2 cups frozen or fresh chopped green beans 11/4 cups fresh or frozen corn 1 cup frozen or fresh peas

Heat olive oil in large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots and celery and sauté 4 minutes then add garlic and sauté 30 seconds more. Add in broth, tomatoes, potatoes, parsley, bay leaves, thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to boil and add green beans. Reduce heat to medium low, cover and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes. Add corn and peas, cook 5 minutes longer. Serve warm.

David Schmitz ∙ Nevada ∙ Consumers Energy

Cauliflower Soup 1 medium head cauliflower, broken into flowerets 1-2 medium shredded carrots 1/4 - 1/2 cup finely chopped celery 21/2 cups water 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon powder 2 cups milk, 1% or 2% 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese 3 tablespoons butter 3 tablespoons flour 3/4 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon pepper

In a large pan, combine first five ingredients. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, simmer 12 to 15 minutes until vegetables are tender. In another pan, melt butter, stir in flour, salt and pepper until smooth, gradually add milk. Bring to a boil on medium heat and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and stir in cheese to melt. Stir in the cauliflower mixture and heat through. Serve immediately or keep hot in crock pot.

Elinor Moeller ∙ Tripoli ∙ Butler County REC

TIPSALT SPARINGLYDepending on the ingredients you’re adding, you don’t always know how much salt is going in. Many stocks have high levels of sodium. Save most of your seasoning until the end. Taste and add salt and pepper as desired.

September 2018 LIVING WITH ENERGY IN IOWA 9

EMAIL: recipes@livingwithenergyiniowa.com(Attach your recipe as a Word document or PDF to your email message.)

MAIL: RecipesLiving with Energy in Iowa magazine8525 Douglas Ave., Suite 48Des Moines, IA 50322-2992

TIPSTAGGER VEGGIESA carrot will take longer to cook than a pea. Stagger the addition of vegetables so they’re all finished cooking near the same time.

TIPCOOK ONCE, EAT TWICESoups are easy to make in large batches and are one of the most freezer-friendly dishes around. Double up on ingredients, grab a large pot and make two meals instead of one.

TIPTAKE STOCKMaking chicken stock in your pressure cooker using one chicken carcass saves time, money and energy. Plus, the method intensifies flavor and minimizes evaporation.

Cabbage Stew 1 pound ground beef 3 medium thinly chopped onions 1/2 head shredded cabbage 4 stalks chopped celery 1 quart tomatoes 1 40.5-ounce can kidney beans 1 cup water 1 tablespoon sugar (or to taste) 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper Garlic powder to taste Soy sauce to taste Vinegar to taste

Brown beef in heavy pot or skillet. Add onion, celery and cabbage. Cook and stir until cabbage is glassy looking. Add remaining ingredients, heat to boiling. Reduce heat and simmer 30-45 minutes.

Cindy Briggs ∙ Centerville Chariton Valley Electric Cooperative

Cheddar Corn Chowder Soup 2 tablespoons butter 2 cups milk 1 medium sliced onion 2 cups cream style corn 1/2 cup chopped celery 2 cups shredded cheese 1 cup diced potatoes

Melt butter in pan. Sauté onion and celery until lightly brown. Add potatoes and milk. Cover and simmer over low heat for 30 minutes or until potatoes are done. Add corn and heat through. Remove from heat and stir in cheese. Serve when cheese is melted.

John Grace De Rycke ∙ Victor ∙ T.I.P. REC

Pork and Bean Soup with Vegetables 2 pounds boneless pork ribs or 2 pounds

ham 1 quart liquid reserved from cooking pork 1 clove minced garlic (dehydrated is OK) 3 slices bacon 1/3 cup chopped onion 2 peeled, diced carrots 2 ribs chopped celery 1 diced potato 1 cup water 1 16-ounce can pork and beans 1 8-ounce can tomato sauce Salt, pepper and brown sugar to taste Instant mashed potato flakes (opt.)

Cut up boneless pork ribs or ham. You should have about 4 cups of diced meat pieces. Cook in water (I use my pressure cooker if I’m using pork ribs) until done. Drain off 1 quart of the cooking water. Refrigerate this liquid in a wide mouth jar. When the broth is cold, skim off any fat. Save the reserved broth to use in soup. In a large pan, cook bacon. Save about 2 tablespoons drippings. Cook onion in drippings. Add carrots, celery, potato, along with the garlic and water. Cook covered, until vegetables are tender. Add the reserved meat broth, the pork and beans, and tomato sauce. Add any small amount of water used to rinse cans. Season with salt, pepper, and brown sugar to taste (add little bits at a time). Add diced pork or ham and crumbled bacon. To thicken slightly, add some mashed potato flakes, a few at a time.

Shelley Hundling ∙ BredaRaccoon Valley Electric Cooperative

As fall weather starts to settle in, we turn to comfort foods. But it won’t be long before the calendar turns to a new year. With January, resolutions for healthy eating often take center stage, and we’re looking for healthy dishes! If we run your recipe in the magazine, we’ll send a $25 credit for your electric co-op to apply to your power bill. Recipes submitted also may be archived on our website at www.livingwithenergyiniowa.com.

The deadline is Sept. 30, 2018. Please include your name, address, telephone number, co-op name and the recipe category on all submissions.

Wanted: Recipes for healthy eatingThe Reward: $25 for every one we publish!

10 LIVING WITH ENERGY IN IOWA September 2018

How Iowans are helping monarchsBY ERIN CAMPBELL

“Research has shown that an all-hands-on-deck approach is necessary for successful monarch conservation. That’s why Iowa agriculture must play a central role as part of a science-based solution,” said Joe Colletti, interim endowed dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State University. “The consortium continues to emphasize development of practical, scientifically proven strategies for increasing monarch habitat in combination with crop and livestock production in Iowa and the Upper Midwest.”

Several of Iowa’s electric cooperatives are looking at ways to establish pollinator and monarch habitat on their properties and rights of way. For example:

Allamakee-Clayton Electric Cooperative has a walking trail at its headquarters, which is surrounded by native prairie grasses and flowers, including milkweed which is essential to the monarch habitat.

Iowa Lakes Electric Cooperative is pursuing a project to grow the monarch habitat at its headquarters in Estherville; the habitat will be located in and around the co-op’s solar array.

The idea of establishing a walking trail at Allamakee-Clayton Electric Cooperative’s (ACEC) headquarters came from a Safety Committee Meeting discussion in 2013. Initially, it was created to encourage employee wellness by providing a designated trail for walking. The trail is a mowed area that measures .40 miles, or roughly 800 steps, and takes about 7 minutes to walk. The co-op worked with Pheasants Forever and a local seeder to plant assorted prairie grasses and wildflowers to provide habitat for monarchs. Like many other ACEC employees, Dan Stelpflug (left), Susan Goodman and Dave Dougherty enjoy using the trail.

As you spend time outdoors in the warmer months, you may have noticed fewer monarch butterflies over the years. Unfortunately, the monarch butterfly population has experienced an 80 percent decline in the past 20 years due in part to the loss of milkweed habitat – which is the only food source for the monarch caterpillar. Milkweed plants are also used exclusively by female monarchs for laying eggs, so the plant is critical to the species’ survival. Geographically, Iowa is in the center of the monarch’s summer breeding range, and approximately 40 percent of all monarch butterflies that overwinter in Mexico are estimated

to come from Iowa and neighboring Midwestern states. For monarchs to survive and thrive, it’s essential for Iowans to help establish milkweed habitats.

The Iowa Monarch Conservation Consortium – a partnership of farmer and conservation groups, state agencies, companies and Iowa State University – has set a goal of 830,000 acres to be devoted to monarch butterfly habitat in the state by 2038.

“The consortium has worked collaboratively with diverse stakeholders to develop a comprehensive plan to expand habitat on our agricultural land, urban areas, roadsides and other public land. We appreciate the many partners that have been involved and

are encouraged by the work already underway,” said Mike Naig, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture.

The Iowa Monarch Conservation Strategy – developed by the consortium members – guides the implementation and documentation of a voluntary, statewide conservation effort based on the best available science. The consortium is a group of 40 organizations, including agricultural and conservation associations, agribusiness and utility companies, universities and county, state and federal agencies. Iowa’s electric cooperatives are members of the consortium through their affiliation with the Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives.

September 2018 LIVING WITH ENERGY IN IOWA 11

Farmers Electric Cooperative in Greenfield recently voted to dedicate 5-7 acres around the Greenfield office to monarch habitat. The co-op will prepare the ground this fall and plant in early spring 2019.

A great example of how Iowans are working to improve monarch habitat can be found in Harrison County, where we talked with Scott Nelson, director of the Harrison County Conservation Board. Scott says the board is actively working to convert mowed grass areas within their jurisdiction to pollinator habitat.

“It really is a win-win situation; when we convert areas to pollinator and monarch habitat, it’s maintenance-free once it’s established and it provides a valuable food source for monarchs, bees and other native animals.”

The Harrison County Conservation Board manages more than 1,800 acres throughout the county, which is served by Harrison County Rural Electric Cooperative. Just a few miles west of the electric co-op office at the Willow Lake Recreation Area, the conservation board actively manages more than 35 acres of pollinator and monarch habitat, with plans to add even more habitat along

the walking trails and cabins, which are available to the public for rental.

Thad Pothast, natural resource technician with the Harrison County Conservation Board, is passionate about bringing native prairie and plants back to Iowa.

“Iowa was once covered by 75 percent prairie, but today, remnant prairie only makes up one-tenth of one percent of the state’s landscape,” Pothast says. He notes that patience is required when establishing pollinator habitat.

“The first two years, your plot may look like a weed garden, but you’ll start to see wildflowers, taller grasses and more variety by year three,” he says. “I often take calls from county residents who want to establish monarch habitat on their private land.”

To learn more about establishing monarch habitat in your area, Pothast recommends contacting your local county conservation board. You can find contact information for your county at www.mycountyparks.com.

For more information on the Iowa Monarch Conservation Consortium and ways you can help, visit monarch.ent.iastate.edu.

Erin Campbell is the director of communications for the Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives.

A monarch caterpillar

Scott Nelson, director of the Harrison County Conservation Board, inspects the pollinator habitat.

Thad Pothast, natural resource technician of the Harrison County Conservation Board, examines the pollinator habitat for caterpillars.

Photo credit: Aaron Eckley

12 LIVING WITH ENERGY IN IOWA September 2018

Monarchs and you – ways to help

All Iowans can play an active role in monarch conservation. These resources and tips will help you to get started.

Need help getting started? Prairie Partners Program

Prairie Partners is an ongoing partnership between the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Iowa Native Seed Growers Association and the Iowa Chapter of Pheasants Forever. Unique to Iowa, this program aims to encourage more Iowans to plant Iowa-grown native seed for wildlife habitat and pollinator projects.

The partnership was designed to give landowners a lot of flexibility for habitat options. The process is relatively simple, and the site visit usually only takes a few hours. Landowners working with the Prairie Partners may be eligible for 50 to 100 percent cost share on native seeding, and the mixes can be developed to fit within each landowner’s budget. Landowners are responsible for preparing the site, seeding it and long-term maintenance.

A list of Iowa contacts and other assistance available to landowners can be found at www.nrem.iastate.edu/wildlife/contacts.

5 ways to help monarchs:Take advantage of Farm Bill programs to establish monarch breeding habitat. Increasing the number of milkweeds and nectar-producing plants is vitally

important for monarch conservation. These efforts also benefit other pollinators and related wildlife conservation goals. Contact your local USDA Service Center for more info and to learn about available programs at nrcs.usda.gov.

Establish monarch habitat on your land as part of a demonstration project. The Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation and partners, through the Monarch Butterfly Flyway Project, are restoring/installing monarch habitat along three north-south migration corridors in Iowa. This project will partner to cost-share new pollinator seeding on public land or permanently protected private lands (conservation easements). Contact Lhein@inhf.org for info. Four additional grants exist for EQIP-eligible lands, bioreactors, and land near hog confinements. Contact monarchs@iastate.edu to learn more.

Follow federal pesticide labels and state regulations when applying pesticideslabeled as toxic to bees to avoid unnecessary exposure to pollinators and

monarchs. Adjust spray equipment to reduce drift by using low pressures, large droplets and low boom heights. Avoid applications when wind speed is above 10 miles per hour or wind direction is toward monarch habitat. More info at epa.gov/pollinator-protection.

Consider monarch-friendly weed management recommendations for roadsides and other rights-of-way. Roadsides offer options for miles of

monarch habitat (milkweed and nectar plants). Ask the Iowa DOT or your county roads department to avoid spraying or mowing your roadside and for permission to plant or maintain native plants in your roadside. The Integrated Roadside Vegetation Management program at the University of Northern Iowa has no mow/no spray signs, FAQs for landowners, and Iowa’s mowing law at tallgrassprairiecenter.org/irvm-brochures.

Establish a Monarch Waystation, a garden with both nectar plants and milkweeds, where monarchs can find nectar and reproduce. Monarchs lay eggs on milkweeds; the only food monarch caterpillars eat. Adults need flower nectar from spring to fall. Learn more at monarchwatch.org.

Source: Iowa Monarch Conservation Consortium

Milkweed is essentialTo attract monarch caterpillars and butterflies, milkweed is essential. There are 18

species of milkweed native to Iowa, including common milkweed, swamp milkweed and butterfly weed, which is characterized by bright orange flower clusters which bloom in mid to late summer. In addition to milkweed, native blooming plants (aka “forbs”) provide nectar for adult butterflies, bees and other pollinators. Iowa State University has developed a monarch seed mix guide with native plants and milkweed. Download a free copy of the guide at store.extension.iastate.edu/Product/15139.

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September 2018 LIVING WITH ENERGY IN IOWA 13

I N T H E N E W S

H O W Y O U R C O - O P W O R K S

Preparation is the key to success in many things we do in life. Planning, practice and thoughtful assessment provide opportunities to work out potential problems in advance.

September is National Preparedness Month, and the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency is encouraging all of us to prepare for emergencies. But most of us do better when we prepare for the routine, the extraordinary and the unexpected.

For electric cooperatives in Iowa, preparation plays a huge role in ensuring that our members have the electricity they need as soon as they flip a light switch or start an appliance.

When a co-op crew pulls a truck into a loading bay, warehouse workers have already pulled the parts and equipment needed for that crew’s scheduled day’s work. When a member services representative discusses balanced billing by telephone, they’re helping a member with preparations to ease the impact of seasonal high bills.

When meteorologists call for exceptionally hot or cold weather, electric co-ops work closely with their generation and transmission cooperatives (G&Ts) to ensure adequate supplies of electricity are reserved to meet anticipated demand.

Iowa’s electric co-ops are constantly

The power in preparationBY DERRILL HOLLY

by flooding, tornadoes, high winds, blizzards and ice storms. Electric co-ops maintain and constantly update emergency response plans. Employees train for major events and know in advance what their primary and secondary roles would be. Electric co-ops also subscribe to mutual aid agreements. That’s why you see trucks and crews from co-ops in other states in your communities when major power outages occur.

We also work with state and national officials to help ensure that crews can get to your communities when they are needed and have the lodging, food and support necessary to work effectively far from home.

September may be National Preparedness Month, but Iowa’s electric cooperatives are committed to preparedness every day – for the routine, the extraordinary and the unexpected.

Derrill Holly writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

Congratulations to these electric cooperative member-owners for each winning an Instant Pot Multi-Cooker from our random drawing at the conclusion of the 2018 Iowa State Fair: Kate Hindin, Hampton, Franklin REC; Lisa Klein, Sheldon, North West REC; and Christine Koehn, North English, T.I.P. REC.

Thank you for visiting the Touchstone Energy Cooperatives of Iowa booth in the Bruce L. Rastetter 4-H Exhibits Building!

Dawn Sly-Terpstra from Central Iowa Power Cooperative and Randy Mages from Nishnabotna Valley Rural Electric Cooperative visit with a curious young fairgoer.

preparing for the future. Engineers and construction crews design, build and upgrade the electric system to move electricity from power plants and substations to farms, homes and businesses.

All of these actions prepare electric co-ops to deal with the daily challenges of meeting the electricity needs of their members. Working together, we put in just as much effort preparing for the uncertainties posed

Iowa State Fair winners announced

14 LIVING WITH ENERGY IN IOWA September 2018

A B O U T E N E R G Y

Remember to consider peak hours for electricity during upcoming winter months

Peak hours are the busiest times for your local electric cooperative, since many people are using electricity at the same time. In addition, it costs your co-op more to generate electricity when demand soars during peak periods – and the cost of your electricity also may rise.

Obviously, using less electricity during peak periods can save your co-op – and you – money.

Here’s how you can help during peak hours, which generally are on the coldest winter days between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m.:

Shift household chores and activities away from peak periods. For instance, wait to run your dishwasher until you go to bed.

Use the most energy-efficient appliances you have. Your microwave oven and countertop cooking appliances, for example, use considerably less energy than your stove or cooktop.

If you’re buying a new appliance, make sure you get a highly efficient one. Look for Energy Star® labels when you’re evaluating different models.

Be aware of your energy consumption, and try to get in the habit of using energy efficiently year-round.

Use the energy you need but use it wisely! You’ll help your co-op avoid building expensive new power plants – and that, in turn, will help keep your electric rates stable.

E N E R G Y M A T T E R S

Details released for Iowa Home Energy Assistance Program

The 2018-2019 Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) has been established to help qualifying low-income Iowa homeowners and renters pay for a portion of their primary heating costs for the winter heating season. The assistance is based on household income, household size, type of fuel and type of housing.

Besides meeting the income guidelines, you must furnish the Social Security numbers of all household members and a copy of recent heating and electric bills. You also must show proof of income for all household members age 19 and over. If you receive alimony or child support, it will need to be verified too.

If you’re a wage earner, you should bring copies of your check stubs for the 30-day period before the date of application or a copy of your federal income tax return. If you’re self employed or a farmer, provide a copy of your most recent federal income tax return. And if you’re on a fixed income – Social Security Benefits, Supplemental Security Income, Family Investment Program (FIP), Veteran’s Assistance, Unemployment Insurance and pensions – take copies of check stubs from the last 30 days. For FIP

Income MaximumsHousehold Size Annual Gross Income

1 $21,245 2 $28,805 3 $36,365 4 $43,925 5 $51,485 6 $59,045 7 $66,605 8 $74,165

Note: For households with more than eight members, add $7,560 for each additional member.

If you see suspicious activities, please call. Together, we can cut down on copper theft and other crimes that impact utility bills!

Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives

recipients, bring your current DHS Notice of Decision or contact your local office for acceptable document information.

In Iowa, applications for the program will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis from Nov. 1, 2018, through April 30, 2019. The start date is Oct. 1, 2018, for elderly (60 and over) and/or disabled applicants. If you’re not sure where to apply, visit humanrights.iowa.gov/dcaa/where-apply to contact your local community action agency, or write: LIHEAP, Iowa Department of Human Rights, Capitol Complex, Des Moines, IA 50319.

September 2018 LIVING WITH ENERGY IN IOWA 15

There’s one set of directions that a GPS is never going to deliver, and those are the directions given by farmers.

Of course, when speaking to another farmer, it’s OK; it’s when a newcomer arrives on the scene that things get fuzzy in a hurry.

Farmers think nothing of saying things like, “Well, you go down the Elevator Road until you get to the old Roorda place. Just past that, you turn left where that tornado took out a grain bin in ’97. Then go straight until you get to the Big Pine. Just past the Big Pine, turn into the Missouri Crossing on the left.

It makes no difference that there hasn’t been a Roorda on the “old Roorda place” for 50 years or that the demolished grain bin has been gone for 20 years. When you’re talking to folks who’ve been in the same area for most of their lives, it will make sense. Otherwise, you’re in trouble.

I grew up with this “farmer speak” and find myself guilty of using it as well. Our family had “The Ninety” and “The Hundred and Six,” both referring in very mundane terms to the number of acres each piece possessed. We had the “Woodpecker Tree,” and the “Indian Rock” and directions on our farm always used them as points of reference, sort of like any trip to Des Moines that involved directions always started with, “Well, when you get to The Cow….”

Those of us who use this lingo probably have no idea how confusing it can be for a newbie. I heard this loud and clear from a woman I’ll call Jane, who moved to an Iowa farm from a big city in Wisconsin after her marriage. The first autumn Jane was there, she made tons of food and schlepped it out to the field for her husband and his hired workers.

O U T B A C K

Her husband had given her what he thought were pretty good directions, and as Jane pulled up, she saw their machinery in the field.

Laying out her spread on the back of the pickup tailgate, the workers all gravitated toward the food and began chowing down. Just as Jane was wondering where her husband was the CB radio in her pickup began to squawk, “Hey, where are you? We’re getting hungry.” Jane replied, “Where are YOU? We’re all here eating.”

As you probably guessed, Jane was feeding the wrong workers in the wrong field. She packed up what was left of her meal, threw it in the back of the pickup and took off, meeting the

bona fide wife on the road who was coming to feed that particular crew.

The next Sunday afternoon, Jane had her husband drive her to every one of their fields while she took notes that were much clearer than “turn left at the old Patterson place.”

Next time you’re looking for a location in a new place, beware the farmer directions. How do you know? If it starts with “Go straight until you pass the half-grown hedge ball tree…” you’re in trouble.

Valerie Van Kooten grew up on an Iowa farm and loves writing about everyday things that affect all of us. She and her husband have three sons and two grandsons.

“Farmer Directions” leave newbies in the dark

“I get my power from my co-op, so I can put my energy into my family. Touchstone Energy

Cooperatives provide much more than a way to the keep the lights on – it’s how you plug

into the family, friends and neighbors that make up your local co-op.”

Touchstone Energy Cooperatives. Your source of power. And information.