Defining It |
Measuring it |
What is regenerative ag? There are many right answers. We want longevity of the land, environment, and climate. So, we farm using techniques focused on protecting and building our resources. Most of these techniques are designed to mimic nature; no-till, living roots in the soil, and plant diversity, while others, such as variable rate fertilization, are designed to protect the environment and be efficient with the resources we need.
|
We work with Precision Conservation Management (PCM), an company that works with the University of Illinois and the Natural Resources and Conservation Service to rank and track conservation efforts. The more environmentally friendly practices a producer adopts, the more their score improves. This allows landowners to see how their land is being used, and shows grain buyers how sustainable different suppliers are.
|
Many of today’s farming practices have serious effects on the environment, climate, and the long-term productive capacity of the soil. Tillage hurts soil life, adds to atmospheric CO2, and causes erosion. Illinois’s last agricultural land survey estimated that an average of 4.1 tons of soil/acre are lost every year from farmland. Overfertilization and erosion contribute to environmental pollution through poisoning of lakes and rivers. Overuse/misuse of pesticides harms beneficial species and causes resistance to chemicals. All of these impact the long-term ability to produce enough food for the growing population.
|
|
“Standard” Practices
Under this system, land is left without plant life for long stretches of time and little residue is there to protect the surface from erosion. With no living roots, soil life is reduced. Use of GMO crops and pesticides when often unwarranted promote chemical resistance. |
Our Practices
Under our system, there are almost always living roots in the soil protecting it and feeding soil life. Fertilizers are placed when and where the plants need them, increasing efficiency. Pesticides are applied only when needed. After crops are removed, cover crop planting keeps soils protected and active from fall to spring. |