University of Minnesota Extension, Renville, Yellow Medicine and Swift SWCD offices, and Hawk Creek Watershed invite farmers and crop consultants to a unique field day to learn about soil health:

When: Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2019, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (for farmers and crop consultants)
Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2019, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (for SWCD and NRCS staff)
Where: American Legion - 60 6th Ave, Granite Falls, Minn.

This unique, small-group field day will equip participants with the ability to identify different levels of soil structure and help them understand management strategies to improve the soil. Most importantly, participants will be able to connect the visual and physical impacts below ground to how it is treated above ground. At the end of the field day, attendees will be able to take a shovel to any part of their field and have a better understanding of what they are seeing.

Field day activities include opportunities for attendees to learn how to determine soil texture and the benefits and challenges of various soils management practices. Presenters will discuss soil structure, the benefits of aggregated soils, and the habitat earthworms and microbes need to thrive. Participants will learn the basics of soil sample analysis and by digging in soil pits, and will understand soil compaction and how to avoid or remedy the situation on their land.

The day’s events will start with a welcome and overview of soil health, then participants will be divided into groups to view three unique stations to further their understanding of soil structure and management techniques. Presenters include soil specialists from Minnesota, North Dakota, and Manitoba.

Register soon, space is limited. Sign up now to ensure a spot at z.umn.edu/SHfarmer or call Mary Jo at 320-235-0726 x2001.