Soil Health Forum Feb. 18
MARS HILL — Aroostook County farmers are invited to attend a free, live broadcast of the National Conference on Cover Crops and Soil Health Tuesday, Feb. 18 and discuss how to improve yields, curb erosion, manage pests and build resilience into their farming system.
Locations in every state across the country will host local Cover Crops and Soil Health Forums where farmers will have the opportunity to learn from one another while exploring local and national perspectives on cover crops.
The county forum will be held at Central Aroostook High School, located at 26 Pleasant St. in Mars Hill.
Facilitated discussions on local issues pertaining to cover crops will follow a live-streamed broadcast of opening sessions from the national conference, including a dialogue with Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack (invited) and Howard G. Buffett, plus a panel discussion with expert farmers. Because the national conference attendance is limited, the local forums represent a way to include farmers, educators and researchers across the country in the emerging conversation about the use and benefits of cover crops.
Area attendees will also have the opportunity to contribute ideas and comments on cover crops and soil health back to the leadership group at the national conference. These comments will be collected by staff at the local sites as part of the discussion process.
Participants are encouraged to RSVP to ensure adequate seating and to get specific details about the forum as programs will vary by location. Live streaming from the national conference will begin at 10 a.m. Attendees are encouraged to arrive 30 to 45 minutes ahead of time for check in and introductions.
FMI, call Angela Wotton of the Southern Aroostook Soil & Water Conservation District at 532-2087, ext. 3.
