Workshop to focus on cover crops, soil health near Jewett

Farmers, landowners and anyone interested in improving soil health and crop resilience are invited to attend Digging Into Cover Crops, a hands-on field workshop from 9:30 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 18.

The program will be held near Jewett, with the exact location to be announced closer to the event on the harrison.osu.edu website calendar.

Hosted by the Harrison Soil & Water Conservation District and Ohio State University Extension, the interactive workshop will provide practical, field-based education on how cover crops can improve soil function, manage weeds and pests, and support long-term farm productivity.

Participants will have the opportunity to explore root boxes that highlight deep, diverse cover crop root systems; learn how to select the right cover crop species using soil maps and decision-making tools; hear what is working, and what is not, when it comes to weed suppression and pest control; learn about cover crop research plots led by the Ohio Department of Agriculture; and find out how to rent and operate no-till drills through local soil and water conservation districts.

Whether they are new to cover crops or looking to fine-tune an existing system, participants will receive real-world insights and practical tools to help build healthier soils and more resilient cropping systems.

There is no cost to attend, but pre-registration is required by April 13. To RSVP, contact the Harrison Soil & Water Conservation District at 740-942-8837.

The first 20 registered attendees will receive a free copy of “Managing Cover Crops Profitably,” third edition, and the “Midwest Cover Crops Pocket Field Guide.” Coffee and doughnuts will be provided. Participants are asked to dress for the weather, as this is an outdoor event.

For more information, contact Erika Lyon of Ohio State University Extension at 740-461-6136 or the Harrison Soil & Water Conservation District at 740-942-8837.