Could 1 Million Acres of Maryland’s Soil Build a Better Future?

Could 1 Million Acres of Maryland’s Soil Build a Better Future?

Healthy soil grows better crops with fewer inputs. It can contribute to the profitability of your operation by helping you increase your income or reduce your costs. Healthy soils can help you manage risk by ensuring that your fields are less vulnerable to extreme weather events like excessive rainfall or prolonged drought. Healthy soils use nutrients more effectively and efficiently, and balanced soil biology can mean less pest and weed pressure with fewer spray passes. They may even, in the not-so-distant future, set farmers up to receive payments for ecosystem services including improved water quality, enhanced biodiversity, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and carbon sequestration. In the long run, healthy soils are a legacy that you can leave behind for your children and their children to improve their bottom line.