by Monica Jean

If you have been considering a soil health assessment, there’s an opportunity to get a free soil health test with Michigan State University Extension through a newly funded research project.

The project seeks to understand how climate change and extreme weather events affect crop yields, soil health and the economic well-being of farmers across Michigan, while facilitating opportunities for Michigan farms to contribute to climate-change solutions.

The team of MSU researchers is looking for row crop farms interested in free soil health tests to sign up now, with sampling happening in the fall.

This project is looking to enroll row crop growers (corn, soybean, wheat, etc.) that are using conservation practices such as cover crops, no-till, a three-plus crop rotation, manure, Conservation Reserve Program or biodiversity strips, or have an interest in implementing conservation practices.

Any row crop farmer in Michigan is eligible to participate. Once enrolled, select two fields of your choice. A member of the team will visit your fields and soil sample postharvest in 2024. Results will be shared back through a report and an optional consultation.

Included in the soil assessment is a routine nutrient test report, pH, texture, soil respiration, permanganate oxidizable carbon, autoclaved-citrate extractable protein and enzymatic activity.

How to sign up

Complete an enrollment survey, and enroll by Sept. 15

For more information, reach out to Monica Jean, MSU Extension field crop educator, at [email protected] or 616-443-8782.

This work is a partnership that includes MSU, MSU Extension, MSU AgBioResearch, the Michigan Plant Coalition, and the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Jean writes for MSU Extension.