AGRICULTURE
Healthy soils, healthy farms
Building soil health
Healthy soils produce nutrient-dense crops and support long-term productivity.
Soils rich in organic matter and deep-rooted plants hold more moisture, reducing erosion and keeping fields resilient during dry spells. Acting like a sponge, these soils filter and absorb nutrients and contaminants before they can reach our lakes, rivers, and groundwater.
When soils thrive, everyone benefits—farmers, communities, and the environment.
Soil exhaustion and the loss of diverse soil organisms are common challenges in agriculture. That’s why we promote practices that restore soil health and biodiversity.
Through no-till farming, rotational grazing, and other soil-friendly methods, farmers can rebuild organic matter, improve soil structure, and strengthen natural biological systems.
The goal: robust soils, productive farms, and cleaner water for future generations.
Request an on-site visit
Request an on-site visit for agricultural soil health practices. A SWCD technician will meet you at the site, listen to your concerns, and assess site conditions.
Examples of soil health practices include:
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Cover crops
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Conservation tillage
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Rotational grazing
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Fence
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Livestock watering systems
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Pasture and hay planting
Agricultural Assistance-Marta
2 hrs • Free
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Requesting an on-site visit does not guarantee grant/cost-share funding.
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On-site visits are required for funding.
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Funding is based on priority areas and available funding/grants.
Financial assistance may be available for your project
Landowners can apply for cost-share funding with the SWCD to help them implement conservation practices on their property. These practices are designed to protect and enhance natural resources like soil and water.