Try the recipes
To sample a few of Paige Putnam’s
favorite recipes, see page 18.
Alycia Willenbring discovered a passion for the environment as early as her grade school science classes, opening her awareness to a new world.
However, she never anticipated it would lead her in the direction it has.
The 33-year-old is a resource conservationist for the National Resource Conservation Service, serving Dubuque, Delaware, Jackson and Jones counties.
She began her studies at Northeast Iowa Community College, earning her associate arts degree, before embarking upon a bachelor of science degree in environmental conservation and reclamation at University of Wisconsin-Platteville.
“I actually began my studies in environmental engineering,” Willenbring said. “Then, I joined the soils team in college, and it changed the trajectory of my career. I just took such an interest in it.”
Soil conservation uses a combination of practices to protect soil from degradation. This involves continually returning organic matter to the soil.
In Willenbring’s role, she works with local farmers in how they implement crop rotation, reduced tillage, mulching, cover cropping and cross-slope farming to increase organic matter, soil structure and root depth to enhance soil health.
“It’s taking into consideration long-lasting practices that will help protect the environment,” she said.
Additionally, Willenbring pays special attention to educating women working in agriculture, implementing partnership programs and outreach opportunities to provide the resources they need to feel confident their roles.
She serves as the lead for Dubuque, Delaware and Jones counties chapters of Women, Land, & Legacy, which aims to “empower female landowners and farmers to be agents of positive change in their communities through active participating, educational sessions and networking opportunities,” according to its website.
“Forty seven percent of all land in Iowa is owned by women,” she said. “But historically and in farming culture, we haven’t seen women having a seat at the table or being a part of the conversation. Women, by nature, are nurturers, so they have an innate ability to offer a lot when it comes to conservation and land. My hope is that through having the resources available, we can build diversity and inclusion through environmental education.”
Willenbring also is passionate about collaboration, working across multiple organizations to implement outreach in local communities.
“Alycia planned and executed the Women & Soil event at Field of Dreams in June,” said colleague Erin Erickson. “This was an event focused toward women in agriculture, women landowners and women in the community. However, there were also some men who joined after hearing the incredible lineup of speakers that Alycia successfully set up. By planning these events for the community, she helps other women make connections to guide them on goals of their own properties.”
Colleague Jodi Enos-Berlage spoke to Willenbring’s work ethic and inclusive leadership style that consistently welcomes new ideas.
“After hearing a talk I presented at the Iowa Water Conference in September 2023, Alycia approached me with intention and enthusiasm,” Enos-Berlage said. “She shared how inspiring the talk was to her, and then said, ‘I want to do something big — a major event focused on how women can save soil.’ At the time, I had no idea what a rock star Alycia was. What she did in the nine months following simply blew me away. Honestly, I’ve never seen anything like it. With steadfast determination, she put together a team and planned and executed an amazing event to fulfill her vision. Women & Soil at Field of Dreams was the result. She secured outstanding speakers; the amazingly appropriate venue; major radio, TV, local, regional, statewide and even national promotion.
“I will also emphasize the Alycia has done all of the above on top of her regular job and her job of being a mom of young children. She doesn’t have to take these types of projects on. She does it because she believes in how important soil health is and that we shift to more regenerative practices quickly. She knows what is at stake. She’s making an incredible difference, with ripple effects.”
Additional events Willenbring has helped spearhead include a pasture and grazing field day, a farm transition event, a sourdough bread-making workshop, Wine in the Woods and a farm-to-table dinner.
“Alycia is a born motivator,” said fellow committee member Carol Sherman. “Her passion for soil conservation and advocating for women landowners is inspirational. She shows all women that it is possible to have a family, a career and a passion for helping others through outreach. Other women see how her love and dedication to her family compliments her passion and drive for what she does. So many women have been inspired by her drive to help women use their voice to make change for the better, especially as it relates to our soil and water in this part of the world.”
When not called to do the environmental education and outreach work she does, Willenbring and her husband are parents to two toddlers. She also is an artist by hobby, who enjoys restoration, antiquing and fixing up her family’s Victorian-era home in Dyersville, Iowa.
“There are a lot of successful women out there doing it and empowering other women to do it, too,” Willenbring said. “Don’t be afraid to get out there.”
Megan Gloss writes for the Telegraph Herald.
