You know how here in Illinois folks say things like, “don’t like the weather? Wait ten minutes.” Well, that warning seems to be coming true more frequently these days. 2019 kicked off with turbulent weather—an arctic blast followed by a healthy dump of snow and we were well on our way to an exciting year. […]
soil health
Assessing and Accessing Progress in the Soil
Michelle Wander, soil science professor at the University of Illinois, discusses how farmers can measure their progress and leverage that progress for future growth.
Diversity is the Key to Adversity
Dave Bishop of PrairiErth Farm delivers a presentation on the importance of diversity in organic farming systems.
Establishing Field Plans and Crop Rotations at Goldmine Farms
Jack Erisman, veteran organic farmer and owner of Goldmine Farm, presents a farm tour where he discusses his double seven year rotation and field management of organic grain crops. He explains the importance of the farmer’s relationship with the land, the importance of diversity in organic systems, and how those culminate in the creation of […]
Guide to Transitioning to Organic Grain Production in Illinois
Introduction Illinois is known for its soil, and the swath of drummer silty clay loam, or black dirt, running across central Illinois, is considered some of the most fertile in the world. Despite the exceptionally productive soil, most farmers use conventional methods that employ synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, fungicides, and herbicides. Those methods, coupled with plowing, […]
Land Purchase and Sales Guide
Are you looking for farmland? learn the pros/cons of leasing and buying discover creative ways to find the right property get lists of helpful resources and step-by-step suggestions Are you a landowner? learn about all your options: long-term lease, sell with easement, and many more maintain income and flexibility for you or your estate find […]
