CHILTON, Wis. — For David Geiser, a farmer in Calumet County, farming is more than just a job. It is a way of life instilled in him since childhood.
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Geiser grew up on Gold Star Farms and later took over the family business with his wife. His family farm has a long history that has seen many changes over the years.
About 10 years ago, Geiser implemented cover crops and no-till practices that led to significant benefits in his soil management. More recently, in 2023, he and his wife made a significant transition by selling their dairy herd and starting to rent out some of their cropland.
Geiser credits his involvement with Calumet County Ag Alliance for increasing his knowledge about cover crop species mixes and understanding how they interact with soils.
“Cover crops can be tricky because they’re ever-evolving,” he said. “You have to consider other factors, such as crop rotations, your goals on the farm and weather, of course.”
About three years ago, Geiser joined CCASA and has been an active group member, including serving on the board of directors.
“It’s great to be around like-minded farmers who are trying new things to see what works best for us and for our community,” he said.
When it comes to adopting conservation practices, it’s important to understand that each farm is unique.
“Over the years, we’ve realized what works one year, may not work the next,” Geiser said. “That’s why it’s helpful to be a part of a group like this, where we share ideas and continue learning and trying new things.”
Annual survey results
As part of Geiser’s membership, his farm participated in the group’s 2024 Member Conservation Practice Survey. This survey highlights the collective conservation efforts among farmers in the group and demonstrates potential environmental impacts and benefits to the local community.
This is the fifth consecutive year the group has documented members’ sustainable practices, demonstrating their commitment to continuous improvement and enhancing soil and water quality.
The group, composed of 20 farmers and two community members, implemented various conservation practices including: planting 10,125 acres of cover crops, practicing no-till and strip-till on 11,865 acres and planting green on 3,142 acres. Members also followed a nutrient management plan on 25,047 acres.
The potential environmental benefits of these practices:
- Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 1,737 tons of carbon dioxide equivalents, which is equal to greenhouse gas emissions produced by 414 cars driven in a year.
- Prevention of sediment loss from farm fields of 18,260 tons, equivalent to 1,826 dump trucks worth of soil.
- Reduction of phosphorus runoff by 18,271 pounds of phosphorus, potentially preventing 9.1 million pounds of algae growth in local water bodies.
Data was analyzed by Houston Engineering, Inc., and Farmers for Sustainable Food.
“As farmers, we’re the boots on the ground,” Geiser said. “So, it’s our responsibility to manage our soils and land resources, so they can be healthy and prosperous for many more years.”
Individuals interested in involvement with CCASA can find more details at calumetcounty.org.
By the numbers
Number of acres covered by conservation practices among Calumet County Ag Stewardship Alliance members:
- 2020 ― 25,795
- 2021 ― 62,916
- 2022 ― 112,693
- 2023 ― 84,575
- 2024 ― 102,892
*Multiple conservation practices can be used on a farm field
Potential impact of conservation practices in 2024:
- Phosphorus runoff reduction ― 18,271 pounds
- Sediment erosion reduction ― 18,260 tons
- Carbon dioxide emission reduction – 1,737 tons
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About Calumet County Ag Stewardship Alliance:
Calumet County Agriculture Stewardship Alliance is a nonprofit group of innovative farmers, committed community members, and other professional partners dedicated to championing sustainable farming practices that protect water quality and build healthy soil. The group receives support from members and partners, including agricultural and environmental organizations and the state Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection.
More information: https://www.
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