While agriculture has been called out as the single largest contributor to nutrient and sediment runoff entering the Chesapeake Bay, hard-working and conscientious watershed farmers have also shown agriculture can make the largest improvements. As natural stewards of the land, hunters, anglers and community members, farmers respect nature and understand the value of conserving soils, protecting waterways and building more sustainable success.
Farms make up nearly 30% of the 64,000 square-mile Chesapeake Bay watershed.
Connect your commitment for soil health with farmers who are leading the way. Learn about today’s programs and incentives that can make it easier to start your soil health action plan. Just click here to get started. Rejuvenate soil health and create a layer of security for your farm and family. The benefits of healthy soils keep growing with time. While it takes more than a season to see results, a commitment to basic soil health practices returns visible benefits sooner than many people would think. In fact, a recent survey by CTIC found that 58% saw soil health benefits in under two years. The ideal soil composition is 50% solids (organic and mineral) and 50% pore space filled with gasses and water. With simple steps, such as no-till and planting cover crops, depleted and compacted soils can be rejuvenated. Significant soil health improvements are possible in as few as three to five years. The growing rewards with a commitment to soil health include: Enhanced nutrient availability and crop quality Reduced weed and pest pressure Improved disease resistance Better water conservation with less runoff and erosion Stronger foundation for sustainable farming success Building soil health takes commitment but pays dividends that grow 24/7.
Brought to you by Farm Journal’s conservation ag division - Trust In Food - with support of the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation
