2022 | Bridge to Soil Health

Contact

Applicant Organization: Land Stewardship Project

Contact: Shona Snater Langseth

Email: slangseth@landstewardshipproject.org

Project

 

The Land Stewardship Project’s Bridge to Soil Health initiative strives to rejuvenate agricultural soils, enhance the quality of water in streams and underground aquifers, sequester carbon, expand wildlife habitats, and encourage prosperity in farms and rural communities. With a focus on instituting a lasting shift in Midwestern agriculture, the group aims to amplify the presence of local crop and livestock farmers committed to soil health practices, while encouraging open dialogue about the substantial financial and environmental advantages of sustainable ag. Joining forces with farmers and community partners, the project paves the way for a resilient and renewable agricultural future.

Through strategic educational events, targeted advertising, mailers, and direct farmer engagement, the Land Stewardship Project actively facilitates crucial outreach efforts. Their latest project emphasizes extensive public information dissemination and media initiatives showcasing on-farm transformations, with farmers sharing real stories of challenges and success. 

Two of the large educational events will specifically discuss the connection between soil health, water quality, climate change and the effects on native fish populations. One event will feature  Dr. Jennifer Biederman of Winona State University, who will detail the connection between extreme weather, warming stream water and trout health. Another event called “Agriculture and the Mississippi River” will provide farmers with a riverboat tour of the Big Muddy and discuss the connection between farming and the river. The National Trout Center will assist with event outreach.

At the core of this endeavor are Soil Hubs, farmers’ groups designed to foster collaboration, problem-solving, and support, where neighbors can navigate the transition to sustainable farming practices together. These hubs also serve as platforms for monitoring and tracking acreage improvements, ensuring tangible progress towards a more resilient agricultural landscape.

Testimonials from farmers within Soil Hubs reveal a trend, with many reporting reductions in fertilizer, herbicide, and pesticide usage thanks to improved soil conditions. This dual benefit not only provides economic savings for farmers but contributes to the broader goal of sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship.