Skip Navigation

Soil Health

Soil Health

Unlock the Secrets in the SoilUnlock the Secrets in the Soil

Soil is a living and life-giving substance, without which we would perish.

As world population and food production demands rise, keeping our soil healthy and productive is of paramount importance. So much so that we believe improving the health of our Nation’s soil is one of the most important endeavors of our time.

By focusing more attention on soil health and by educating our customers and the public about the positive impact healthy soils can have on productivity and conservation, we can help our Nation’s farmers and ranchers feed the world more profitably and sustainably – now and for generations to come.

The resources on this soil health section of our site are designed to help visitors understand the basics and benefits of soil health – and to learn about Soil Health Management Systems from farmers who are using those systems.

So whether you’re a farmer, a researcher, a conservationist or an interested citizen, the information on this site will help you “Unlock the Secrets in the Soil.”

 

Profiles in Soil Health

Hear directly from some of the nation’s leading  farmers to find out how they’re using soil health management systems to make their farms more profitable, productive and sustainable. 

Crowley image for Soil Health

Click here to see more video “Profiles in Soil Health.”

Through the use of no-till and cover crops, Darryl Crowley says his land now absorbs more water, which helps his crops. And he has all but eliminated wind and water erosion. Now, when he sees dust blowing off of other farms, he doesn’t just see the loss of topsoil – he sees the loss of someone’s future. Watch video.

 

Speaking for the Living Soils

Eath Week hands 2012.

Meet our Soil Health Spokespersons, which include 7 dedicated soil experts with more than 175 years of combined experience with NRCS.


 

Soil Health Fact Sheets

soil-health-basics

Learn what you can do to improve your soil's health. Check out our brief but informative fact sheets that explain how to unlock your farm's potential. En Espanol.En Español.En Español.En Español.


 

Soil Health Support from 20 Groups  

Todd & Arliss Nielsen think their no-till and ryegrass cover crop combination builds organic matter

Twenty farm and conservation groups recently signed a letter supporting NRCS' Soil Health effort.


 

Healthy, Productive Soils Checklist

checklist-for-growers

See our healthy, productive soil health checklist for growers and learn what might be a part of your soil health management system. (PDF, 4.4 MB)

 

 

Soil Health Specific: News Releases