By Andi Anderson
The Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) has launched a free soil sampling program to help farmers improve soil health and nutrient management.
The program, called Indiana’s Mississippi River Basin Soil Sampling Program, is designed to increase awareness and use of soil sampling as a vital agricultural practice.
Lt. Governor Micah Beckwith highlighted the program’s role in maintaining Indiana’s leadership in soil conservation. It provides farmers with essential data on soil fertility, helping them make informed decisions on fertilizer applications, optimize crop production, and reduce nutrient loss.
The program follows the 4R Nutrient Stewardship framework, which emphasizes applying the right nutrients at the right rate, time, and place. This approach enhances farmer profitability while ensuring environmental sustainability.
By understanding their soil’s nutrient levels, farmers can prevent overuse of fertilizers, protect water quality, and maintain long-term soil health.
Eligible farmers include those managing row crops, pastures, hay fields, and specialty crops within Indiana’s portion of the Mississippi River Basin.
Priority will be given to fields that have never been tested or have not been sampled in the past four years. Hobby gardens and private lawns are not eligible.
The application deadline is April 4, 2025, or until funding is exhausted. Farmers can apply online through ISDA’s website or by contacting soilsampling@isda.in.gov. This initiative is supported by ISDA, Indiana Soybean Alliance, Indiana Corn Marketing Council, and other agricultural organizations.
This program is a valuable opportunity for Hoosier farmers to enhance their soil health and adopt sustainable agricultural practices without financial burden.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-sasiistock
Categories: Indiana, Sustainable Agriculture