Olmsted Soil and Water Conservation District hosts soil health event

January 9, 2024

The Olmsted Soil and Water Conservation District (OSWCD) is hosting free events in January and February 2024 in partnership with soil and water conservation districts in neighboring counties. The intended audience for these events is local farmers.  

January 18 event 
The first event on January 18, 2024, will address concerns of managing soil health practices when extreme weather hits. It will occur from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Bluff Brothers Brewery at 817 N. Broadway Avenue in Spring Valley. A free lunch at noon will be available for attendees. 

“This is an excellent time of the year to invite farmers to learn about resilient soil management practices that can be invaluable for the upcoming growing season,” said OSWCD Manager Skip Langer. “We have collaborated with other soil and water conservation districts to offer opportunities to learn from each other.” 

Various experts will share their perspectives and knowledge. 

• Dr. Jerry Hatfield has researched how farmers can manage their land in different ways to store carbon and hold more water in the soil. His presentation will cover how air, water, and soil quality are connected. 
• Dr. Kenny Blumenfeld, an expert in climate science, will talk about recent weather patterns and provide a detailed weather forecast for the area. 

In addition to these speakers, a panel of local farmers will provide their perspectives. 

Those interested in attending should register online. 

February 7 event 
Another event in Stewartville on February 7, 2024, will focus on practices farmers have implemented to make their crops, livestock, and soil more productive and profitable. Additional details will be shared about this event soon. However, OSWCD invites the public to stay updated on local soil health events on its webpage. 

Take a survey!  
OSWCD is asking all local farmers and landowners to take a brief survey. OSWCD wants to learn more about communications preferences to understand how to better share information with you. Survey responses will be accepted through March 15, 2024.  

“We’re eager to gather your thoughts to help enhance our programs and ensure OSWCD continues to serve you well,” said Langer. 

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Media contact: Communications Specialist, Emma Diercks, 507-328-6166