FERGUS FALLS, Minn. — The SFA Midwest Soil Health Summit, a unique conference focused on improving soil health, crop yields and farm profitability where attendees rub shoulders with some of the nation’s leading soil health experts, will return Feb. 14-15, 2018, at Bigwood Event Center in Fergus Falls.

From expert presentations to ample networking opportunities to the release of years-long data collection at soil-building farms, the 2018 MSHS is, as always, ready to provide the latest research and real-world farmer experience to help farmers and ag professionals maximize their knowledge of soil health principles.

Leading the charge in 2018 is nationally renowned scientist Dr. Kristine Nichols, whose research examines the impacts of management such as crop rotation, tillage practices, organic production, cover crops and livestock grazing.

Also set to appear are Dr. Allen Williams, grazing and soil health expert; Kent Solberg, SFA livestock & grazing specialist; Justin Morris, NRCS soil health specialist; Dr. Ann Marie Journey, soil health coordinator (ACES); Don Reicosky, retired USDA soil scientist; and many more.

Additionally, SFA and the Pasture Project will release years-in-the-making research data that looks at the cost and benefit of adding cover crops and livestock and includes participating farmers in Minnesota and Iowa. A farmer panel will ensue.

An evening food-and-drink reception Feb. 14 will include a discussion with Drs. Nichols and Williams, “The Social Implications of Soil Health,” emceed by Solberg.

Also returning are the popular discussion tables, loads of built-in networking time, a full trade show, and more. Dinner on Feb. 14 and lunch on Feb. 15 are included with registration. Cost is just $100 for SFA members and $150 for nonmembers.

Info/registration: www.sfa-mn.org/soil.

The 2018 SFA Midwest Soil Health Summit is sponsored by Albert Lea Seed and the Minnesota Dept. of Agriculture.

— Sustainable Farming Association

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