If you’re a gardener, then you know that getting your space ready for planting is the most strenuous task. Traditionally, gardeners will dig or turn over the top layer of soil before planting to get rid of weeds, and make it easier to plant crops. This also speeds up the decomposition of crop residue, weeds and other organic matter. We know there is a complex, symbiotic relationship that exists between the soil surface and the underlying micro-organisms, which contributes to

The St. Joseph County Soil and Water Conservation District is working to improve water quality by promoting and providing cost share for practices in the conservation cropping system (no-till, cover crops, nutrient management, and filter strips). The goal of this program is to encourage producers to utilize all aspects of the cropping system which will increase soil health and improve water quality. The SWCD will cost share practice acres as follows: No-till - $15.00/ acre (m

The St. Joseph County Soil and Water Conservation District is working to improve water quality by promoting and providing cost share for practices in the conservation cropping system (no-till, cover crops, nutrient management, and filter strips). The goal of this program is to encourage producers to utilize all aspects of the cropping system which will increase soil health and improve water quality. The SWCD will cost share practice acres as follows: No-till - $15.00/ acre (m