Indiana's Leading Agricultural Trends

Barry Fisher, state agronomist for NRCS

Did you know that Hoosiers, among all the great food-producing states, are actually leading the way in agriculture? That's right - Indiana farmers have received accolades from across the board, from Federal government representatives (NRCS Chief Dave White) and fellow neighbors and farmers. With support from their local Soil and Water Conservation Districts, the uniquely Hoosier Conservation Cropping Systems Initiative and the Indiana Conservation Partnership, Hoosier farmers have shown that using conservation-forward agricultural practices is good for their land, good for their crops, and good for their businesses.

Did you know Indiana has more cover crops than the rest of the nation combined?

NRCS states that Indiana farmers' focus on soil health is is notable. "Indiana success with this approach, being promoted through the Conservation Cropping Systems Initiative, is getting national attention and will be a focus of NRCS this year."

Hans Kok of CCSI holding 

a sample of a  popular cover crop: 

oilseed radish 

"Soil Health is soil managed to its maximum potential through a system of conservation practices, including never-till, cover crops, advanced nutrient and pest management, and buffers and drainage systems where appropriate. This approach results in healthy soil that reduces erosion, requires less nutrient inputs, manages the effects of flood and drought, and reduces nutrient and sediment loading to streams and rivers." (NRCS)

Indiana farmers certainly have a lot to be proud of! Contact your local SWCD for more information on how to keep this state - and the land we depend on - great.