Farmer puts soil health first: Field day focuses on regenerative systems

WILLIAMSPORT, Ind. — Regenerative agriculture systems, also known as soil health systems, can help restore soil nutrients and benefit cash crops.

The Big Pine Watershed Steering Committee and Rick Clark, a farmer in Williamsport, hosted a field day Aug. 28 to discuss the importance of conservation practices.

Clark uses a systematic approach to regenerative soil health including 100% no-till and cover cropping.

His goal is to establish a three-pass system that will include a cover crop pass in the fall, a no-till plant pass in the spring and a roll crimp pass is the spring after planting.

“We’ve got to get it done with cover crops, diversity and patience,” he said. “All of these things we can do.”

Cattle grazing is a critical part of Clark’s system.

“I understand that cattle are not going to work on every operation,” he said. “But if you have the ability to get some livestock, it’s the most efficient and quickest way to build soil health. It’s unbelievable how efficient a cow is.

“I believe about 90% of what they consume comes right back out to the soil. All of those nutrients and minerals come back onto the soil profile. That’s what regenerative, organic is all about.”

Clark encouraged farmers who are new to regenerative ag systems to take it one step at a time.

It’s critical for a beginner to not get in over their head, he said.

With enough time and patience, conservation practices can restore soil health.

Learn more about the farm at www.farmgreen.land.