By Scout Nelson
Farmers for Soil Health, a farmer-led program, is working to enhance soil health by encouraging more widespread use of cover crops. The initiative, supported by the Soy Checkoff, Pork Checkoff, and National Corn Growers Association, aims to double the use of cover crops to 30 million acres by 2030.
In partnership with state-level agricultural groups and conservation organizations, the program provides incentives to help farmers adopt cover cropping practices that benefit soil and farm resilience.
Enrolled farmers receive financial incentives to integrate cover crops on their land, thanks to a $95 million grant from the USDA Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities. This funding directly supports participating farmers in incorporating sustainable farming practices.
North Dakota State University (NDSU) plays a key role in the program, providing scientific support, technical guidance, and outreach. Led by NDSU Extension conservation agronomist Rutendo Nyamusamba, the team at the Dickinson Research Extension Center helps local farmers learn about and adopt cover crops.
“Cover crops have many benefits, including soil water and nutrient retention, reduced soil erosion, extending grazing periods and managing soil health aspects,” said Nyamusamba. “Our goal is to enroll 35,000 acres, or approximately 98 farmers into the program in North Dakota.”
The goal in North Dakota is to enroll 35,000 acres of farmland into the program, assisting about 98 farmers with the transition. Farmers for Soil Health Executive Director Ben West explains that the program was designed by farmers for farmers, offering flexibility in timing and assistance in both costs and learning curve associated with cover crop adoption.
Enrollment in the Farmers for Soil Health program is straightforward and online. Farmers can sign up before or after planting cover crops, making it convenient for those new to the practice. The program also connects farmers directly with end users, establishing a marketplace for cover crops. The fiscal year runs from March 1 to February 28, with a turnover on February 28 between prior and current year crops.
For new cover crop adopters, the program offers a three-year payment plan of $50 per acre, with $25 provided in the first year, $15 in the second, and $10 in the third. Interested farmers can visit FarmersforSoilHealth.com to check eligibility and enroll. This initiative supports both soil conservation and sustainable farming practices across the nation.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: North Dakota, Business, Weather