Virtual Shop Visit - Planter Modifications for Different Conditions
2021-02-02 07:30 - 08:30 (America/Chicago) | Virtual
Join AJ Adkins, owner of NTM Ag Equipment and Dawn Equipment Specialist, as he shows us a variety of planter modifications. AJ will talk about the process of setting up a planter for a client based on their farming system and field conditions.
You can learn more about AJ’s work at ntmagequipment.com or on his Twitter feed @AdamJAdkins
If you’re interested in other Soil Health Events, visit CCSIN.org

Winter Soil Health Virtual Series
2021-02-03 10:00, 2021-02-10 10:00 - 12:00, 2021-02-17 10:00 - 12:00, 2021-02-24 10:00 - 12:00 | Virtual
Wanting to hear from farmers and specialists about specific soil health topics? We have you covered! Tune in every Wednesday from 10am – 12pm from the comfort of your home, shop, or vacation spot to learn about the following topics:

January 27 Timing and Options: Getting starting, 101, making plans A, B, and C
February 3 Cover Crop Mixes: Mixes, species, timing, equipment, herbicides
February 10 Livestock Integration: Timing, herbicides, infrastructure, etc
February 17 Small Grains: Herbicides, timing, management, equipment
February 24 Interseeding Covers: Herbicides, species, mixes, timing, method, management, equipment
We’ll give a free Talk Dirty to Me About Soil Health t-shirt away at every event, must attend to be in the running!

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88355507688?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 883 5550 7688
Passcode: [REDACTED]
312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
Virtual Event Flyer

SFA Annual Conference
2021-02-08 - 2021-02-13 | Virtual
Join us for SFA’s 31st Annual Conference, a virtual event with interactive online programming featuring the shared wisdom of our sustainable farming community. and, where possible, local in-person gatherings – “meet ups” – that conform to COVID-19 guidelines,
Registration is now open!
Free to SFA members, $40 to non members. Registration required here.
We’re planning interactive sessions and features with topics including:

Silvopasture and Agroforestry
Conservation Practices and Programs for Your Farm
Farm to Local Grocery
A Conversation with Alan Guebert
Soil Health: Hay & Forage
Quality of Life on the Farm
“Side Hustles” – Off-season Income
Thom Petersen, MN Department of Agriculture Commissioner on COVID-19 Meat Processing Initiatives and Challenges
Theresa Keaveny interviews MN Attorney General, Keith Ellison
Beth Dooley on Cooking with Perennial Crops
A Music-filled Social Hour
and more

See the Sessions & Features HERE.

Sponsors and Exhibitors
Support SFA’s mission of sustainable, regenerative and resilient agriculture while promoting your organization, programs, products or services through the conference’s interactive online format and in-person events.
Download Sponsor/Exhibitor Information and Application Form HERE
You may pay for your sponsorship or exhibitor fee HERE. Please also fill out the form as well.
Questions? Email Katie Feterl

Agronomic and Economic Considerations for the Business Case of Adopting Soil Health Management Systems
2021-02-09 13:00 - 14:00 | Virtual
Participants will learn agricultural production factors along combination with economic considerations for evaluating profitability of adopting Soil Health Management Systems.
Information in this webinar is based on the potential soil health benefits of various alternatives to conventional tillage and associated production practices. Demonstrations presented will teach participants methods of comparing financial outcomes of adopting Soil Health Management Systems. Focus groups for the presentation are farmers, landowners, farm managers, consultants, crop advisors, and researchers.

This webinar is presented by the USDA NRCS Soil Health Division. Contact Candy Thomas, Regional Soil Health Specialist, Soil Health Division for more information about this webinar.
Audio is Computer Broadcast only | Live captions
NOTE: A “view” button will be available within one week of the live presentation date to access the on-demand recording of this webinar.

Farming for the Future: A Forum Exploring Ecosystem Markets
2021-02-12 11:30 - 13:30 | Virtual
Join the Illinois Sustainable Ag Partnership and organizations from Indiana, Iowa, Ohio, and Wisconsin for a free, national webinar exploring different environmental and carbon market opportunities for Midwest farmers. This event brings four prominent carbon markets to one table, Indigo Ag, Nori, Ecosystem Services Market Consortium, and the Soil and Water Outcomes Fund, providing farmers a side-by-side comparison of opportunities. Presentations will walk the audience through the process of program enrollment from start to finish, highlighting key contract terms and conditions, payment schedules, and verification requirements.

So... You Want Me to Change How I Farm?
2021-02-16 07:30 - 08:30 | Virtual
This webinar features Rodney Rulon, Rulon Enterprises, who will discuss the financial and operational questions a farmer answers before deciding to adopt a conservation practice. It is important for anyone – conservation professional, landowner, land manager, etc. – to understand these decisions when they are asking farmers to adopt any conservation practice.
Rulon Enterprises is a family farm located in Arcadia, Indiana, that continues a seven-generation tradition of sustainable and environmentally responsible farming. Rodney is responsible for leading the farms development of a production system focused on Maximum Economic Yield. This approach includes the cost to society of erosion and nutrient leaching. He manages the farm’s drainage system design, soil sampling and fertility, and conservation programs. He continues to develop the farms cover crop program to improve soil health.
Rodney currently serves as a Supervisor on the Hamilton County Soil and Water Conservation District and is an NACD Soil Health Champion.
You can find other Soil Health Events at CCSIN.org

Principles to Practices - Soil Health with Jay Fuhrer and Jon Stika
2021-02-16 13:00 - 16:00 | Virtual
Zoom Virtual Event
Come join us for a workshop with presentations from widely recognized soil health experts! Learn why soil health matters and how you can assess soil health on your farm. Along with how to incorporate soil health into practices. Hear information and data from planting cash crops into green cover crops (planting green) and grazing perennial/annual covers at Menoken Farm. There will also be opportunities for Q&A and networking with fellow attendees!
Info about presenters:
Jay Fuhrer spent 40+ years working for the NRCS. His work with the soil health team in Burleigh County, ND successfully partnered with stakeholders and farmers to incorporate the five soil health practices across the county and help inspire others across the Midwest. He is known and has spoken internationally about soil health. Jay now spends his time incorporating soil health practices at Menoken Farm.
Jon Stika is a retired soil scientist and soil health instructor with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service and is currently a research technician at the North Dakota State University Dickinson Research Extension Center, environmental consultant, contributing writer to AgDaily and Brew Your Own magazine, and brewer/consultant at Phat Fish Brewing Company LLC in Dickinson, North Dakota. Jon is also the author of “A Soil Owner’s Manual: How To Restore and Maintain Soil Health” published in April of 2016. He is the 2014 recipient of the Legacy of Conservation Award from the Natural Resources Conservation Service, 2014 United States Zero Till Non-Farmer of the Year Award winner from the Manitoba-North Dakota Zero Tillage Farmers Association, 2002 & 2014 Professional Award winner from the North Dakota Association of Soil Conservation Districts and 2006 Fellow Award winner from the Soil & Water Conservation Society for his work in writing and teaching about soil health.
This event is free. We encourage you to donate to LSP if you are able.

Growing Stronger - Collaborative Conference on Organic & Sustainable Farming
2021-02-22 - 2021-02-27 | Virtual
We’re joining forces to bring our communities together in one multi-day, multi-topic, must-see event! With 6 days of premium education packed with purposeful discussions, Growing Stronger will build your skills and nurture your passion for organic and sustainable farming.

If you usually attend one of these conferences, you’re in for a treat. Not only will you get the kind of content you’ve come to expect, you’ll also find a full array of workshops and discussions to complement and broaden your experience. You’ll see familiar faces plus connect with a wider community of people working to build resilient farms and robust food systems.

If you’re new to organic production or grass-based livestock, you’ll find the answers you need to make critical decisions for your farm. You’ll draw upon a wealth of information not just in workshops, but also in facilitated discussions, meet-ups, speed talks, and the virtual exhibit space.

Growing Stronger gives you:

More than 60 workshops spanning 10 categories. Participate in live workshops with Q&As and watch all the rest at your leisure—recorded content will be available for 90 days.
Facilitated “roundtable” discussions to share ideas and move the needle on important issues.
Farmer Speed Presentations to highlight new practices, innovative tips, or simply explore each other’s farms.
Exhibit space with “Show Specials” so you can get the supplies you need at the best prices. Browse resources and chat with suppliers, buyers, certifiers, consultants, and more.
Evening gatherings and farming-related films.
Keynote conversations from the Real Organic Symposium featuring prominent voices in the organic movement.
Bookstore hosted by Mother Earth News with a great selection of titles on farming, green living, and more.
Access to a rich conference experience right from the comfort of your home—no need to travel or hire someone to do chores!

2021 Farming and Ranching for the Bottom Line
2021-02-23 - 2021-02-24 | Virtual
Please join us for the 6th annual ‘Farming and Ranching for the Bottom Line’ event on February 23 & 24, 2021. This year, like most other events, will look a little different. We have an excellent line-up of speakers for this virtual conference delivered via Zoom. Registration is free, and those who preregister will have the Zoom link emailed to them the week of the conference. Check out the full agenda below to see the line-up of speakers and topics.
This event is made possible by our partners: Area 4 Research Farm, Bismarck State College, Morton and Burleigh County Soil Conservation Districts, Menoken Farm, ND Grazing Lands Coalition, NDSU Extension, NDSU Research Extension Centers, USDA Agricultural Research Service, and USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service.

Midwest Cover Crops Council Conference
2021-02-23 - 2021-02-25 | Virtual
February 23-25 hosted by University of Guelph
The annual business meeting will be held on Tues February 23 at 9-3 C /10-4 E and will include State, Province, and Partner reports.
MCCC 2021 Annual Meeting – Tues Feb 23
9-3 C /10-4 E
10-10:15E / 9-9:15C Welcome and MCCC Update
10:15-11:15E / 9:15-10:15C State Reports (15min each – WI, ND, IA, MI)
11:15-11:25E / 10:15-10:25C 10min Break
11:25-12:25E / 10:25-11:25C State/Province Reports (15min each – OH, ON, KS, IN)
12:25-1:30E / 11:25-12:30C Lunch
1:30-2:45E / 12:30-1:45C State Reports (15min each – IL, NE, MO, MN, SD)
2:45-3:00E / 1:45-2:00C 15min Break
3:00-4:00E / 2:00-3:00C Partner Reports (SARE, SCCC, WCCC, NECCC, CTIC, PFI)
Conference agenda and registration here.

Measuring and Managing Soil Carbon
2021-02-25 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
Soil carbon is a key factor for soil health, and it is an increasingly important resource for farmers and landowners to manage. To see a hands-on demonstration of valuable soil carbon management tools, join No-Till Farmer editor Julia Gerlach and Midwest Bio-Tech Vice President Doug Miller for a free webinar on Thursday, Feb. 25, at 10:00 a.m. CST, “Measuring and Managing Soil Carbon.”
Miller will explore how soil carbon is measured in the lab and demonstrate simple tests you can use on your farm. He’ll also share what Midwest Bio-Tech has learned about managing soil carbon in farm fields and how it relates to other elements of soil health.
When: Thursday, Feb. 25 at 10:00am Central Time
Email Julia Gerlach at No-Till Farmer with any questions about the webinar.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THIS FREE WEBINAR.
(The webinar replay will be sent to all registrants within 48 hours of the event conclusion. If you are unsure if you are able to attend, still be sure to register so you are notified when the replay is ready.)

Organic Farm Team Summit
2021-03-05 - 2021-03-06 | Dakota’s Best Seed Warehouse, 36656 SD Hwy 44, Platte, South Dakota, 57369, United States
Organic Resources for Changing Times

The Organic Farm TEAM Summit & Equipment Showcase will feature a diverse program focused on industry updates and innovative practices. Our program features area experts and is relevant to organic growers, as well as those just getting started. The organic industry has maintained rapid growth and change; and we invite you to engage with us and our presenters as we navigate these developments.

To keep up with markets, policies, and trends in organic agriculture, growers are invited to join us and learn about the latest farm practices to produce valuable organic crops. The summit will assist growers to connect and stay ahead of changing federal policies, management protocols, market demands, and insurance coverage for organic and Non-GMO crops.

AGENDA & SPEAKERS: Our lineup of in-person and virtual speakers and Q&A panels will feature the organic agriculture and food industry’s leading experts who will be sharing trends for organic agriculture and how to break through in the tough years while staying focused on the long-term goals of farming operation.
>> FULL AGENDA & SPEAKER LIST WITH BIOS
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SPONSORS, EXHIBITORS, EQUIPMENT: Thanks to all our sponsors and exhibitors! We have an exciting lineup of companies that will showcase the latest products for organic fertility, planting equipment, cultivators, drills and much more. Learn and see all the leading companies in the region that are offering organic agriculture strategies and much more. >> SPONSORS & EXHIBITORS
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FOOD & DRINK: You are in for a treat! Our summit will be catered by Chef Matt from Winner, SD. An accomplished chef originally from California, he has years of experience preparing organic food for his clientele. We will be utilizing locally sourced and organic products as we can find available. Friday night dinner will feature smoked prime rib will all the fixings. South Dakota wine, beer and Badlands Distillery whiskey tasting is planned for the social hour.
​
EDUCATION: At our Organic TEAM Summit we will be offering a FREE short introductory training on the basics of organic certification requirements. You will learn how to address common issues that come up when transitioning to organic and during the application process.
This training is led by an experienced organic inspector who can provide insight into how to prepare and plan for record keeping and compliance activities required by organic certifiers. >> MORE INFO​
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COVID 19: Waiver signature and temperature check will be required at check-in. Masks highly recommended. Bring your own or we will provide. Minors will need waiver signed by parent. We plan to follow all CDC recommended guidelines including socially distanced seating and using masks appropriately. >> INFO & WAIVER
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WEATHER & CANCELATION POLICY: Well, we do live in the midwest, so we should be prepared! In case of cancelation we will post notification on this site and will also email addresses provided at ticket purchase. Covid cancelation would be determined by Monday, November 16 and tickets would be reimbursed. Weather cancelation will be determined by conditions in the Platte, SD area. Please be aware of local weather conditions.

Soil Health Innovations Conference
2021-03-08 - 2021-03-09 | Virtual
Soil health has emerged as a central theme in conversations about the future of American agriculture. Soils have become a focal topic due to new scientific understanding, the application of emerging technologies, and a growing interest among producers and policymakers in improving climate resilience and mitigating emissions.
The Soil Health Innovations Conference will bring together producers, industry professionals, educators, and students who are at the cutting edge of soil health across the country, including on-farm practices, soil biology, carbon markets, and public policy. Join us for a far-reaching exploration of agriculture’s sustainable future.
The virtual conference will be held March 8 and 9, 2021, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. MST, with ample opportunity to visit our virtual exhibit hall, view virtual student posters, and network with other participants.
You can use the form below to reserve your spot. Registration fee is $75, or a discounted $50 for farmers and ranchers. Limited scholarships are available for beginning and limited-resource farmers and ranchers. To apply for a scholarship, please complete this online form.
For more information or if you have questions, contact Alyssa Ness at alyssan@ncat.org or Sandra Booth at sandrab@ncat.org. Both can also be reached by calling (406) 494-4572.
You can also visit the conference website: https://soilinnovations.ncat.org/
University students will be granted free access. A copy of the current student ID will be required. For more information, contact Alyssa or Sandra using the information above.
The Certified Crop Adviser organization and Society for Range Management will be offering CEUs for this conference. Please watch the conference website for further details.

Midwest Soil Health Summit
2021-03-09 - 2021-03-11
The Midwest Soil Health Summit will be held as a virtual event throughout the week of March 9-11, 2021.
Registration, schedule and program to be announced soon.

Classroom - Achieving Cover Crop Success through Practical Goals, Field Trials, and Simple Measurements
2021-03-09 11:00 - 12:00 | Virtual
This webinar will discuss strategies for evaluating fields and farms for cover crop opportunities using goal setting, individual farm planning, and outcome assessment. The webinar will also discuss risk management for cover crops. The presenters will also outline how to clearly communicate to define goals, manage expectations, and answer common grower questions and concerns.
CEUs:
CCA/CPAg: 1.0 Crop Management
CPSS/CPSC: 1.0 Professional Meetings
Speaker Information:
Abbey Wick
Soil Health Extension Specialist and Associate Professor
North Dakota State University
and
Lee Briese
Crop Consultant and Certified Crop Adviser
Centrol Ag Consulting
Abbey Wick is a Soil Health Extension Specialist and an Associate Professor at North Dakota State University. In this role, she works with farmers to identify on-farm goals and select soil health building practices which fit those goals and the logistics of their operations. She also develops state-wide training programs for North Dakota Extension agents. Abbey has B.A. and M.A. degrees in Geography from the University of Denver and a Ph.D. degree in Soil Science from the University of Wyoming.
Lee Briese is a Crop Consultant for Centrol Ag Consulting in central North Dakota. He provides agronomic advice that helps farmers build customized systems to profitably grow and manage crops. He specializes in helping growers adopt practices to protect and improve their soil and local environment. He is a Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) and has served as Chair of the International Certified Crop Adviser (ICCA) Board. Lee earned a B.S. degree in Crop and Weed Science from Dickinson State University, a M.S. degree in Soil Science from North Dakota State University, and a D.P.H. degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
FREE to all registrants.
Registration for the webinar includes access to the live webinar and a link to a recording of the webinar.
The live webinar broadcast will be delivered via GoToWebinar. After registering, you will receive an email with a link to register with GoToWebinar to receive the connection information.
The recording link will be emailed to you and will be available approximately one week from the scheduled date. This link will be valid for 30 days and can only be used by the registrant.

National Cover Crop Summit
2021-03-17 - 2021-03-18 | Virtual
The Spring 2021 National Cover Crop Summit is free-to-attend, 2-day online event that will feature a series of knowledge-building presentations taught by the foremost authorities on cover crops today.
Requiring no travel expense or time away from the office or farm, you will be able to participate from the comfort of your own office through a series of online presentation videos delivering practical tips and information on managing cover crops to improve soil health, protect the environment and enhance on-farm profitability.

DON’T MISS THESE INSIGHTFUL PRESENTATIONS:
Preventing Herbicide Residual Effects on Cover Crops
Gared Shaffer, Weed Field Specialist, South Dakota State University
Breaking Pest Cycles with Full Season Cover Crops
Daniel Olson, Grower, Lena, Wisc.
Maximizing the Potential Soil Health Benefits of Cover Crops
Kip Balkcom, Research Agronomist, USDA ARS
Optimizing Cover Crops with Solar Corridors
Joel Gruver, Associate Professor of Soil Science & Sustainable Ag, Western Illinois University
Preserving Water & Soil Quality Using Cover Crops
Robb Ewoldt, Grower, Davenport, IA
The Economics of Utilizing Cover Crops in a Dryland Environment
Jimmy Emmons, Grower, Leedey, OK
Maximize Livestock Feed Resources with Cover Crops: Tips From a Cover Crop Addict
Bill Buessing, Grower, Axtell, KS
Three Steps to a Growing Revolution: Where Do Cover Crops Fit?
Dave Montgomery, Professor of Earth & Space Sciences, University of Washington
Successful Integration of Multispecies Cover Crops & Livestock
John Macauley, Grower, Groveland, NY
A Balancing Act: Carbon to Nitrogen Ratios with Cover Crops
Trey Hill, Grower, Rock Hall, MD
Using Cover Crops to Build Your Most Valuable Asset
Ray McCormick, Grower, Vincennes, Ind.
Cover Crops & Cows: A Common Sense Approach
Daryl Obermeyer, Grower, Brownville, Neb.

Beneficial Invertebrates in Our Soil
2021-03-17 13:00 - 14:00 | Virtual
Join us as we discuss the diversity of soil invertebrates, their role in soil health, ways to observe or monitor them, and farming practices that support soil life and improve production.
Participate in this training to:
a. Gain an expanded understanding of soil animal diversity, including the ability to recognize the 12 most common groups of soil macroinvertebrates and to describe their role in soil health.
b. Have greater, in-depth exposure to the life cycles and ecology of soil invertebrates, including the ability to describe the basic life cycles of at least 12 invertebrate groups and their role in the food web.
c. Receive training in how to recognize common groups of soil invertebrates, particularly those with agricultural importance, including the ability to describe basic invertebrate body parts and physical characteristics.
d. Identify the basics of field scouting and sampling of soil animals to evaluate species diversity in agricultural settings. This training will guide participants toward being able to carry out that same scouting and sampling independently after the course.
e. Discover practical, science-based conservation strategies to help increase the abundance and diversity of soil animal life.

This webinar is presented by USDA NRCS Science and Technology. Contact Jennifer Ryan, Science & Technology Training Library content manager, for more information about this webinar.
Audio is Computer Broadcast only | Live captions
NOTE: A “view” button will be available within one week of the live presentation date to access the on-demand recording of this webinar.

Exploring Adviser Business Opportunities and Developing Grower Business Plans with Cover Crop Systems
2021-03-23 11:00 - 12:00 | Virtual
This webinar will discuss the benefits of public- and private-sector partnerships in cover crop and conservation practice adoption. Utilizing experience from the Big Pine Creek Watershed Project, the presenters will share specific examples of successful public- and private-sector partnerships designed for agricultural retailers and on-farm advisers. By attending this webinar, attendees will gain knowledge of the available tools and grant opportunities for building successful cover crop and conservation business plans for both retailers and farmers.
Speakers: Leslie Fisher, Resource Conservation Specialist and Big Pine Creek Watershed Coordinator, Benton County Soil and Water Conservation District, Matt Kruger, Eastern Account Manager, Land O’Lakes, Inc.
.5 CEU Crop Management and .5 CEU in Soil and Water Management (CCA/CPAg)
1 CEU Professional Meetings (CPSS/CPSC)

Improving Water Quality and Soil Health on Tile Drained Lands in Minnesota and Wisconsin
2021-03-31 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual
The Discovery Farms Programs in Minnesota and Wisconsin concluded a conservation innovation grant project focused on water quality and soil health on tile drained fields in the fall of 2020. We are ready to bring to you key lessons learned from this project and how the data can be used in future strategies to meet water quality and soil health goals. Join us March 31 from 12:00pm-1:00pm for this virtual event.

Waseca Soil Health Tour
2021-04-01 - 2021-06-01 | Waseca County
Beginning April 1, 2021 running
until approximately June 1, 2021
​ We have put together several locations where the landowners have graciously allowed access to their fields for soil health education. These are the same locations as last fall. Check out the soil differences after spring planting and throughout the early growing season. Pick a day that fits your schedule and when the weather suits you. Tour will remain open until crop canopy stage. This may differ per location. Visit one or visit all. An informational page will be provided at each location. Look for these signs.
You can expect to see sweet corn, pea, soybean, and corn fields; a variety of cover crop mixes; and a variety of conservation tillage practices.
​
Things to consider bringing with you:
Camera
Shovel/trowel to examine soil structure and rooting
Tape Measure
Cover Crop ID Book
Thermometer
We want to know if this was valuable to you. Please take a few minutes to fill out a survey at:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/26C7MW3
This will help us in planning more of these Tours.

Soil Invertebrates - Getting to Know the Life in Soil
2021-04-01 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual
Healthy, living soil and its functions are created and maintained by fungi, bacteria, plants and by invertebrate animals as diverse as annelids, springtails, and firefly larvae, among others. Soil invertebrates are fundamental to soil health and create soil structure, cycle organic matter, consume weed seeds and predate crop pests. This workshop will familiarize participants with common soil invertebrates, their ecology and roles in soil health, scouting methods, and management strategies to increase beneficial soil animal populations.
This webinar will be recorded and available on our YouTube channel. Closed Captioning will be available during this webinar.

Winona SWCD Cover Crop Spring Self Guided Tour
2021-04-12 - 2021-07-01 | Winona County
Self Guided – April through July.
7 farms with 9 sites to visit.
Visit the sites before planting season starts, during a rain day, and once the crop is taking off in June or July.
Here’s a summary of the field sites you can tour….
* planting corn and soybeans green,
* roller crimping mature rye with soybeans,
* interseeding v1-v4 corn
* 60″ corn with interseeding,
* double cropping Triticale and NT soybeans,
* and making cover crops work with manure.
Winona SWCD 2021 Cover Crop Tour

Pasture Map & Soil Value Exchange Webinar
2021-04-12 16:00 - 17:30 | Virtual
Join the webinar, April 15th 4:00 CT , to learn about how carbon storage buyers, like Shopify and Marathon Oil, are trusting nature-based carbon drawdown and storage, American landowners are profiting from soil carbon sequestration, and how regenerative agriculture has an incredible impact on ecology, soil health, water storage and much more.

Bale Grazing Farm Tour
2021-04-19 17:30 - 19:00 | Virtual
The Crow Wing River Basin Forage Council, a Networking Group of the Sustainable Farming Association, is hosting an extensive series of grazing events this spring and summer. Details for each, including registration links, are below. Preregistration is required to attend. All are free.
April 19 – Bale Grazing Tour, 5:30-7 p.m., Hollister Family Farm, 12857 Nokasippi River Rd SE, Brainerd. Bale grazing is a form of wintering cattle on pasture, or outwintering. The benefits of bale grazing include more equal distribution of manure and associated nutrients, reduced machinery costs for feeding and manure handling, and improved soil health. REGISTER.

Adaptive Grazing & Silvopasture Webinar
2021-04-21 09:00 - 10:30 | Virtual
Silvopastures are complex agroecosystems with the potential to provide an array of sustainable products and services. From healthy pasture-based foods and forest products to clean water and carbon sequestration, highly skilled grazing management is critical to the success and optimization of these systems. This webinar will present an overview of Adaptive Grazing Management and a look into its application to Silvopasture.
Presenters: Kent Solberg of SFA, Dr. Sue Wika and Dr. Tom Prieve of Paradox Farm.
Register in advance for this webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_gRbBErm6SCeodxcMYryrAA
*When you attend this Zoom event, you are giving SFA permission to use your image in the live and recorded broadcast of this event. If you do not wish to give this permission, please join the Zoom event or webinar via telephone.
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Energized Fence Training & Silvopasture Workshop/Tour
2021-04-23 08:30 - 16:00 | Virtual
On April 23rd, Sustainable Farming Association is heading out to the Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge for a free, full-day Energized Fence Training & Silvopasture Workshop/Tour, 8:30-4:00 PM. The day is designed for those interested in oak savanna restoration, silvopasture, adaptive or conservation grazing, and semi-permanent fence designs for grazing management.
Participants will enjoy two 3-hour sessions, one session of fencing training with Kent Solberg and Doug Voss of SFA, and one Silvopasture Workshop & Tour session with Tyler Carlson (SFA), Gary Wyatt and Jeff Jackson (U of MN Extension) and Austin Yantes (University of Minnesota). A boxed lunch will be served at noon. This event is limited to 20 participants, and pre-registration is required. Get the full details on the Silvopasture & Agroforestry Project homepage and REGISTER.

Bale Grazing for Overwintering Cattle
2021-04-27 13:00 - 14:00 | Virtual
Participate in this webinar as we discuss bale grazing, how to properly implement this winter feed strategy even in states with mild/wet winters while minimizing surface pasture disturbance, maximizing hay nutrient distribution and targeting the buildup of low fertility soils.
http://conservationwebinars.net/webinars/bale-grazing-an-alternative-strategy-for-overwintering-beef-cattle
Overwintering beef cattle on farms across the U.S. can be a challenge for so many producers. Just the time and effort it takes to feed hay during the wet and cold weather conditions can be stressful enough. That daily chore coupled with excessive hay waste, manure accumulation and the compaction and rutting of wet pasture soils by the daily tractor traffic, often adds multiple levels of resource concerns to soil and water resources on the farm. We are familiar with and encourage stockpiling and strip grazing over the winter. We are also familiar with the benefits of systematically unrolling hay out across the pasture for the cattle, but both of these management techniques have their limitations. How about ‘Bale Grazing’? What is it? Can it be a viable alternative strategy for overwintering beef cattle in our variable (cold/mild) and wet winter weather conditions of the eastern United States? Attend this webinar to learn about bale grazing, how to properly implement this winter feed strategy even in states with mild/wet winters while minimizing surface pasture disturbance, maximizing hay nutrient distribution and targeting the buildup of low fertility soils. See the first hand results of a local farm bale grazing demonstration where this producer fed nearly 400 bales to overwinter his herd using this strategy during the long, wet winter of 2020/2021.
