Farmers are balancing a lot—from rising input costs and labor shortages to increasing weather variability. Minimizing tillage not only benefits the soil and the environment but also brings economic advantages that can contribute to a farm's profitability.

Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) helps ensure enrolled farmers are producing environmental outcomes that can be quantified and verified. This process not only builds trust with our funding partners but also provides valuable insights for our farmers as we collectively work to build economic and environmental sustainability in agriculture.

Ensuring good water quality is essential for sustainable farming, environmental health, and food security. Learn about our water sampling process, conservation efforts, and the impact of reducing nitrogen and phosphorus runoff to protect ecosystems and support sustainable farming.

Water is a critical resource, and managing it efficiently is essential to ensure sustainability and productivity in agriculture. Gain more confidence in managing this vital resource as we review the key principles of efficient irrigation practices, as well as the role conservation measures and soil health play in water management.

In each Tune Up Newsletter, we profile one team member, partner, or other SWOF affiliate to better understand their contribution to the program. In this edition, we’re spotlighting Katina Hanson, Acting Senior Advisor for Climate-Smart Commodities at USDA.

The concept of additionality is frequently utilized to best measure the effectiveness of agricultural conservation initiatives and their environmental impact. The Soil and Water Outcomes Fund considers additionality on a field-by-field basis to help farmers both begin and expand their efforts.

One critical aspect of regenerative farming is the management of tillage. While essential for weed control and soil preparation, tillage can have adverse effects on soil structure and water retention. Delve into the strategies for reducing tillage intensity on your farm, promoting long-term soil health and productivity.

Throughout our diverse agricultural landscapes, soil health is fundamental for productivity and sustainability. Beneath the surface, a variety of organisms, from microbes to fungi, collaborate to nourish and structure the soil. Learn key aspects of the pivotal role microbial diversity plays in fostering resilient agricultural ecosystems.

Discover the unparalleled advantages of integrating Cereal Rye into your cover cropping system. From erosion control to enhanced soil structure, this perennial choice can elevate your agricultural practices. Here we break down the essential timing and considerations required to manage this perennial cover crop effectively.