Call Iowa Concern for Help Coping with Stress of Tornadoes and Storm Damage

Apr 30, 2024

By Tammy Jacobs

At least a dozen tornadoes struck Iowa on April 26, according to the National Weather Service. Iowans struggling to deal with the stress from the devastation of tornadoes and severe storms can call Iowa Concern for help, 24/7, says Tammy Jacobs, coordinator for the long-time service from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.

“By calling Iowa Concern at 800-447-1985 for help, you can talk to a person who cares, learn about your legal rights, discuss financial concerns and find other assistance,” Jacobs said.

With a toll-free phone number, live chat capabilities and a website, Iowa Concern services are available 24 hours a day, seven days per week at no charge. Iowa Concern provides access to stress counselors and an attorney for legal education, as well as information and referral services for a wide variety of topics.

Language interpretation services are available. Or visit the website, https://www.extension.iastate.edu/iowaconcern/, to live chat with a stress counselor one-on-one in a secure environment. Iowans can also email an expert regarding legal, finance, stress, or crisis and disaster issues. All personal information is kept confidential.

Disaster and crisis recovery resources

Iowans looking for recovery resources related to severe weather, natural disasters and other crises may visit extension’s disaster and crisis recovery website, https://www.extension.iastate.edu/disasterrecovery/. During times of natural disaster and other crises, ISU Extension and Outreach offers educational resources to reduce the personal impact, working in partnership with the local, state and federal agencies addressing the need. This website is updated with research-based educational resources for specific types of disaster when events occur.

Source : iastate.edu

Video: Independent Seed, National Impact | On The Brink: Episode 9

A survey of 200 independent seed businesses reveals what Canada's seed sector actually contributes — and what it stands to lose.

On the Brink, Justin Funk, a third-generation agri-marketer, shares the findings of a national survey conducted in early 2026. The numbers reframe the conversation: independent seed companies in Canada represent upwards of $1.7 billion in dedicated seed infrastructure, approximately 3,000 full-time equivalent jobs in rural communities, and an estimated $20 million in annual community contributions. And roughly 90% of Canada's cereals, pulses, and other small pollinated crops flow through them.

The survey also asked how dependent these businesses are on public plant breeding to survive. The answer was unambiguous. For policymakers evaluating the future of publicly funded breeding programs, Funk argues the economic case for this sector and the case for public plant breeding are the same argument.

On the Brink is a cross-country video series exploring the future of plant breeding in Canada. Each episode features voices from across the industry in an open, ongoing conversation about innovation and long-term investment in Canadian agriculture.