By Andi Anderson
A new educational webinar will provide landowners with important information about the impact of solar energy projects on farmland. The program, titled R-STEP Solar on Your Farm: Drainage and Soil Health Considerations for Landowners, is scheduled for July 30, 2026, and will focus on protecting soil and water resources while integrating solar development into agricultural landscapes.
Soil and water conservation remain top priorities for many landowners. As interest in renewable energy continues to grow, understanding how solar farms affect agricultural land has become increasingly important. The webinar will explore both the potential benefits and challenges associated with solar farm development and management.
One of the key topics to be discussed is tile drainage, a critical system used to support crop production on nearly half of Indiana’s farmland. Proper drainage helps maintain productive fields and healthy crops. Experts will explain how solar energy installations may influence existing drainage infrastructure and what measures can be taken to reduce risks and improve outcomes for landowners.
The program will also examine soil health considerations during and after solar farm construction. Construction activities can temporarily disturb and stress soil conditions. However, once vegetation becomes established beneath and around solar panels, continuous living plant cover can help improve soil quality over time. Healthy vegetation may support better soil structure, reduce erosion, and contribute to long-term land sustainability.
Attendees will learn about the natural processes that affect soil and water resources and discover practical approaches to protecting these valuable assets within solar farm systems. The webinar will highlight management strategies that can help preserve farmland productivity while supporting renewable energy development.
The event is open to landowners and interested individuals who want to better understand the relationship between agriculture and solar energy. Registration is required to attend, but participation is free of charge, making the program accessible to a wide audience.
Organizers have also made accommodations available for participants who may need additional support. Those requiring accommodations, interpretation, or translation services are encouraged to contact Jenna Nees, Program Coordinator, before July 23, 2026. She can be reached by phone at (765) 653-8411 or by email at smith535@purdue.edu.
The webinar offers a valuable opportunity for landowners to gain expert knowledge about solar farm planning, soil health management, and drainage protection. By understanding these important factors, participants can make informed decisions that support both environmental stewardship and the long-term productivity of agricultural land.
Photo Credit: istock-shansekala
Categories: Indiana, Energy, Sustainable Agriculture