Soil Health Training

​​The purpose of this curriculum is to develop a common definition and understanding of soil health, and to develop some guideposts of how to implement s​​oil health systems on Wisconsin farms. The course consists of four modules dedicated to the various aspects of soil health. Modules 1-3 cover the foundation of soil health and also helps the viewer learn the terminology associated with soil health in Wisconsin agriculture. The fourth module shows how soil health principles can work on Wisconsin farms and cropping systems. The curriculum incorporates both traditional and citizen science to demonstrate the mindset necessary to be successful as a soil health farmer.

This training was developed by DATCP in partnership with the UW-Nutrient and Pest Management Progra​m, with support from the USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service. ​The primary audiences for this training are Wisconsin farmers, land conservation department staff, and other agriculture professionals in Wisconsin. Community members may also find it ​useful and informative.

Please note: this course assumes a basic knowledge of soil science. For a soil science refresher, visit the UW Nutrient Management Farmer Education Online Course and view the soil modules.

This course has two learning objectives:

Learning objective 1 is to discuss what soil health is (and isn’t) by defining some basic vocabulary and concepts.​ Learning objective 2 is to demonstrate how soil health systems can be implemented on Wisconsin farms.​

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Module 1 | Soil Health Overview​ |1 Section

Module 2 | Cropping System Practices to Improve Soil Health | 6 Sections

Module 3 | The Basics of Soil Properties​ | 3 Sections

Module 4 | Applied Soil Health Strategies | 4 Sections – Under Construction