Indiana conservation groups set new record for soil health practices

By Andi Anderson

Indiana landowners, in collaboration with the Indiana Conservation Partnership (ICP), have set a new record for the second consecutive year by implementing over 50,000 conservation practices to maintain soil health in 2023. This achievement surpasses the previous record of 47,000 practices set in 2022.

The ICP, which provides technical and financial assistance to Hoosier landowners, announced these accomplishments, highlighting the dedication of Indiana farmers and conservationists. Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch, Indiana’s Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development, commended their efforts, stating, "Year after year, Hoosier farmers are installing additional stewardship practices to ensure nutrients and irreplaceable topsoil stay on their fields. Breaking records year after year is no small feat."

According to the ICP report, these conservation efforts have prevented over 1.6 million tons of sediment, 3.6 million pounds of nitrogen, and 1.8 million pounds of phosphorus from entering Indiana waterways. Additionally, cover crops and no-till practices have sequestered an estimated 41,000 tons of soil organic carbon, equivalent to the carbon emissions of more than 30,168 cars.

Common conservation practices in Indiana include cover crops, nutrient management, residue and tillage management, and grassed waterways. These practices have significantly contributed to soil health and productivity, especially during extreme weather events. Indiana NRCS State Conservationist Damarys Mortenson emphasized the importance of these practices, noting, "Keeping our soil healthy and productive is of paramount importance."

Indiana State Department of Agriculture Director Don Lamb also praised the continuous efforts of farmers and landowners, attributing their success to effective partnerships and the availability of the right tools.

The ICP comprises public and non-profit groups, including the Indiana Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts, Indiana Department of Environmental Management, Indiana Department of Natural Resources, ISDA, and Purdue Extension, among others. This partnership plays a vital role in Indiana’s Nutrient Reduction Strategy, setting watershed priorities and managing conservation resources.

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