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 conservation endeavors of our time.
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.
Soil Health Across the Nation
A growing number of America’s farmers are using soil health management systems to improve the health and function of their soil—and we’re working hand-in-hand with these producers through our technical and financial assistance programs and services to help ensure their success. Click here to use the interactive map and find out what’s happening in your state regarding soil health and learn more about some of the farmers who are unlocking the secrets in the soil.
Explore the Science of Soil Health
When we use tillage the soil ecosystem is disturbed on a massive scale. Purdue’s Dr. Eileen Kladivko contrasted natural ecosystems with tilled systems and what we stand to lose when soils are tilled. Watch the video:The Science of Soil Health: What Happens When You Till?
Minnesota Soil Health Producer Profiles
Dan Ley has run the family dairy farm since 2006 and had a great example to follow as his dad started reduced tillage before he took the farm over. Dan’s father set the course for what he now is seeing to be a very profitable way to farm. His farm is 257 acres and it is 100% no-till. The Ley family started no-till in 2000 and saw the benefits in just two years. They had cut their time in the field which cut their fuel costs and led to a much higher net profit. For more information about Dan Ley and other Success Stories, Check out Minnesota Soil Health Producer Profiles.
Newspaper/Magazine Info-Graphics
There are a lot of interesting facts about healthy soil. Check out these informative graphics to unlock some of the secrets in healthy soil. Newspaper, magazine and newsletter editors are encouraged to download and publish these graphics (royalty-free) to help their readers discover some of the interesting facts at our feet.
