"This private support helps us continue CCSI for another two years and focus on the technical assistance, field days and other on-the-ground work for farmers," says Ray McCormick, IASWCD president.

Hans Kok, CCSI coordinator, talks about the importance of cover crops at a field day in Henry County.

"While our goal is to increase the adoption of conservation cropping systems throughout much of Indiana, education is critical to the success of the this type of production system.

The grant will provide access and assistance to make the needed transitions. CCSI staff will provide the expert training to agency and private sector employees to increase the number of people available to provide technical assistance to farmers.

 "By combining healthy soil with advanced conservation and production technologies, we can build a more efficient and dynamic system that also protects our soil, water, and wildlife resources," McCormick adds. 

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