American Farmland Trust (AFT) leads the Advanced Soil Health Training for Illinois Professionals program, along with a cadre of farmers, agricultural retailers, certified crop advisors, and NRCS and SWCD representatives, to develop an advanced soil health curriculum. Initiated in 2015 and funded by a Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) grant, the three-year program will increase participants’ knowledge of a conservation cropping system—cover crops, nutrient management, tillage, and rotation management—to improve nutrient efficiency and water quality. The program is based on the science of improved soil biology and related nutrient efficiencies. Twenty participants will develop the knowledge and training skills to promote improved soil health in their communities and with clients. To fulfill a grant goal, program participants will provide advanced soil health training to an additional 400 Illinois farmers and agricultural professionals.
