By Scout Nelson
Agricultural professionals and farmers came together at the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center for the 20th annual Soil Management Summit. Hosted by the University of Minnesota Extension and the Minnesota Office for Soil Health, the event focused on key soil health strategies.
The Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council (MSR&PC) played a major role as a platinum sponsor. “Everyone is asking questions about cover crops and regenerative ag and what that is all about, and the MSR&PC should be part of that conversation,” said Gene Stoel, United Soybean Board director and MSR&PC board member. “The main benefit is just getting the information out to (the farmers) as to what they can do to comply with what the public is asking for.”
Discussions covered critical topics such as tillage, manure management, and cover crops. Cover crop sessions, in particular, drew significant interest, with multiple discussions led by experts from various universities. Farmers also shared their real-world experiences through panel discussions.
“As we look at how farmers are trying to adapt to various climate challenges, that figures into soil management,” said Mike Youngerberg, senior director of product management and commercialization at Minnesota Soybean. “Hopefully farmers learn things they can take back to their farm that helps them save money or build soil.”
The summit reinforced the importance of ongoing education and collaboration in advancing sustainable farming practices. By learning from experts and peers, attendees gained valuable strategies to improve soil health and farm efficiency.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran
Categories: Minnesota, Crops, Corn