Wisconsin Soil Testing & Soil Health Field Days

 The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) invites farmers to attend a Soil Testing and Soil Health Workshop in September or October. Open to all producers, 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 EQIP funding for cover crop seed.

Workshops will be offered at six locations; farmers are encouraged to pick the date and location that works best for them. The first is happening next week in NW Wisconsin.

·        September 17 – Amery, Hungry Turtle Farm, 4-6:30 p.m.

·        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.

 

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

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 Underserved Farmer Outreach Specialist, at (608) 572-0512 or Andrew.bernhardt@wisconsin.gov.