Earn While You Farm - On-Farm Trials for Midwest Soil Health

By Andi Anderson

Farmers in the Midwest are offered a unique opportunity to earn while enhancing their soil health. Practical Farmers of Iowa (PFI) is calling on farmers invested in practices like cover crops, no-till, and diversified rotations for two on-farm research trials.

In the first trial, farmers can explore the impact of these practices on reducing nitrogen fertilizer usage. The second trial aims to uncover if cover crops provide increased field access throughout the season. Participating farmers, who have been practicing soil health methods for at least five years, will receive a one-time payment.

Trial 1, now in its third year, allows corn farmers to compare their typical nitrogen rates to a reduced rate of their choosing, testing the possibility of improved ROI. Previous participant Josh Hiemstra found confidence in his soil health program, leading to potential cost savings.

In Trial 2, farmers will assess cover-cropped fields weekly, providing insights into the potential for greater field work access, especially during high-stress planting times. Stefan Gailans, PFI's senior research manager, highlights the importance of cover crops in building resilience to challenging weather patterns.

Enrollment for both trials is open until April 10, 2024. To participate or inquire about eligibility, contact Stefan Gailans at (515) 232-5661 or stefan.gailans@practicalfarmers.org.

This initiative, part of PFI's Cooperators' Program, is supported by Cargill, PepsiCo, and The Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research. Join PFI in shaping a future with healthy soil, food, air, water, farms, and communities.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-sasiistock