The agenda for the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) Soil Health Forum and Conservation Tour features an impressive lineup of speakers and tours representing many aspects of agriculture and conservation. 

Monday's Soil Health Forum attendees will hear from past NACD president Gene Schmidt, US Senator Joe Donnelly, and ISDA Director Ted McKinney. Representatives from the Environmental Protection Agency and the Natural Resource Conservation Service will also offer their perspectives.

Panel discussions focusing on soil health will include participants from various stakeholder groups. One will feature agriculture industry leaders, while another will feature farmers who are known throughout the country for their success with soil health practices.

Three of Indiana's leading soil health farmers will open their farm gates for tours on Tuesday. Participants will have the opportunity to visit one of three farms.

For the latest details on the agenda agenda and tours, please visit the NACD website.  

Don't Miss Out on Pathway to Water Quality!

 

There are still opportunities to volunteer with Pathway to Water Quality during the 2014 Indiana

PWQ Exhibit at the State Fair.

State Fair. We can't do it alone! Please take a few minutes to read about the different volunteer positions, then sign up for a shift. All volunteers receive a free admission ticket to the State Fair (2 tickets if you volunteer for a weekend position). 

The Power of Soil Biology on August 22

"The Power of Soil Biology" 2014 Farming for Soil Health Program will bring together a diverse group of producers, agribusiness professionals, and landowners to learn about 

CCSI farmer Mike Werling plants alternating rows of Oats-Peas and Radish-Crimson Clover as part of his soil health system.

fundamental practices of soil biology at the Delaware County Fairgrounds on August 22.

The lineup of speakers on soil 

health includes Indiana NRCS State Soil Health Specialist Barry Fisher, CCSI farmer Mike Werling, and NRCS Conservation Agronomist Ray Archuleta.

Topics to be addressed at the event include:

• Understanding Soil Function
• Soil Health and Nutrient Cycling
• Conservation Cropping Systems, Soil Health, and Water Quality - A Farmer's Perspective
• Local Faces of the Conservation Partnership

Further details about the day's agenda can be found at www.FarmingForSoilHealth14.eventbrite.com. 

"The Power of Soil Biology" 2014 Farming for Soil Health Program is a free event but attendees must reserve their space through the online registration page or by calling Purdue Extension-Delaware County at (765) 747-7732 by August 15.