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Soil Health Initiative
Principles of Soil Health
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Keep the soil covered
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Minimize disturbance
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Keep living roots in the ground
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Diversify rotations
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Integrate livestock
Soil health impacts your food. Your drinking water. Your future. These 3 stories from a Minnesota farmer show why it matters.
Learn about how to reduce inputs and increase profits in three new videos featuring Alex Udermann of Meadowbrook Dairy. Alex shares his experiences incorporating soil health practices into his operation!
Video 1: Soil Health Basics https://youtu.be/AqE41RjdRZY
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In this video, learn how healthy soil is the root to achieving cleaner air and water. Farmer, Alex Udermann and NRCS State Soil Specialist, Stephanie McLain, talk about how healthy soils filter and recharge groundwater that local communities rely on. Alex shares why starting small is the best way to begin your soil health journey.
Video 2: Benefits of Cover Crops https://youtu.be/STFyqVnMPmc
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In this video, learn about the importance of having living roots in the ground year-round. Discover how cover crops can improve soil structure, increase earthworm communities, and help reduce flooding and erosion. Learn how they actively manage water to keep nutrients in place and prevent them from leaching into the groundwater. Watch the video to see how cover crops can aid in your soil health journey!
Video 3: No-Till and How to Get Started https://youtu.be/ijGzNm3X-I4
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In this video, learn about the benefits of conservation tillage and no-till practices. No-till farming is a sustainable agricultural practice for growing crops without disturbing the soil through tillage or turning it over. Residue stays on the surface to help prevent erosion and keep the soil cool on hot sunny days. Alex Udermann shares his experience incorporating no-till practices on his farm. Learn practical pathways for trying these methods, including retrofitting existing equipment, custom hiring, and starting small to find what works best for your operation.
These videos were put together by a soil health interagency workgroup with the help of Graywood Films.
If you have questions about these videos and resources, please contact Katie Breth with Minnesota Rural Water Association (MRWA) at (218)-671-1006 or katie.breth@mrwa.com.
Resource Links
The Stearns Conservation District has multiple programs with funds available for cover crop and tillage management for Stearns County farmers. Let us help you decide what may personally work best for your operation! If you are interested in learning more about our programs, call 320-251.7800 ext.3 or stop in our office from 8:00am to 4:30pm to talk to a SCD Conservation Planner!
