2024 Soil Testing and Soil Health Workshop Series to Be Offered This Fall

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) invites Wisconsin farmers to attend any of a series of Soil Testing and Soil Health Workshops happening this fall across the state.

During the workshops, staff from DATCP, University of Madison–Extension, and USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) will present on the following topics:

• How soil biology and cover crops can increase soil fertility and boost yields
• How to take soil samples, submit a soil test and understand a soil report
• How to determine what soil amendments to add to a field based on a soil report
• How to apply for USDA Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) funding to receive cost share to buy cover crop seed

Open to all producers, these workshops are designed for growers who manage small to mid-sized diversified farm operations with a particular focus on supporting beginning and/or underserved farmers. These field days will connect growers with the information and resources to improve soil health and increase access to USDA programs, such as the NRCS Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) funding for cover crop seed.

Workshops will be offered at multiple locations; farmers are encouraged to pick the date and location that works best for them.

• September 24 – Appleton, NEW Hmong Professionals, 3-5:30 p.m.
• September 30 – Verona (Madison), Farley Center, 4-6:30pm
• October 1 – La Crosse, Hmong Cultural and Community Center, 4-6:30 p.m.
• October 14 – Mequon (Milwaukee), Fondy Farm, 9-11:30 a.m.
• October 21 – Wausau, GreenGold Gardens, 4-6:30 p.m.

There will be a mix of Hmong, Spanish, and English presenters depending on the location. Language interpretation will be provided. Beginning, historically underserved and veteran farmers and ranchers, as defined by the USDA, will receive a free soil test and a $50 stipend to cover their time and travel costs for attending.

To learn more about the individual workshops including how to register, visit https://datcp.wi.gov/Pages/AgDevelopment/SpecialtyCrops.aspx. If you have any questions about these events, please contact Andrew Bernhardt, DATCP Agriculture Program Specialist, at (608) 572-0512 or andrew.bernhardt@wisconsin.gov.