November 2011May/June 2012

PROMOTIONAL COVER WRAP

SOIL: A FARMER’S GREATEST ASSET

UNLOCK THE SECRETS IN THE SOIL—A NEW CAMPAIGN FROM USDA’S NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION SERVICE—PROVIDES TOOLS AND KNOWLEDGE TO IMPROVE OUR SOIL HEALTH.

www.BrownRevolution.org

As world population and food production demands rise, keeping our soil healthy and productive is vital.

By focusing more attention on soil health and by educating producers and the public about the positive impact healthy soils can have on productivity and conservation, we can help our Nation’s farmers and ranchers feed the world more profitably and sustainably—now and for generations to come.

The Howard G. Buffett Foundation is proud to raise awareness in support of this effort

FARMERS: INVESTING IN THEIR ASSETSFarmers across the country understand the benefits of investing in their soil health.

It’s good for the environment and long-term productivity, but it’s also good for their bottom line. As these farmers will tell you, soil is their greatest asset.

“You need to have vision and confidence to succeed. When the commodity cycle inverts, healthy soils will help sustain us through the tough times.”

Dan DeSutterFountain and

Tippecanoe Counties, Indiana

“We averaged nearly 210 bushels of corn and 60 bushels of soybeans. No-till was the only reason we did it.... Once you get started, it’s hard to quit no-tilling... I am saving fuel, saving equipment and saving the soil.”

JIM PURLEEKnox County, IL

“The more nitrogen we get out of the soil, the less we need to apply. With the price of fertilizer these days, we don’t want to waste that opportunity.”

JOHN RIGDONHarford, Cecil, Kent and

Baltimore Counties, Maryland

“In 2007, the average organic matter across the farm was 2.45 percent. This past year, it was 4 percent. My agronomist told me he doesn’t know how anyone could build organic matter any faster.”

JUNIOR BEACHYAugusta County, Virginia

www.BrownRevolution.orgHEAR MORE LEARN MORE

“Take care of the soil, and you will increase fertility... Soil is a living creature. I’m a believer in residue—and proper man-agement of that residue—to increase organic matter and hold carbon.”

KEITH KEMPPreble County, Ohio

“Cover crops and no-till have increased my earthworm population and organic matter, and improved soil structure. I have also improved my water holding capacity, and most importantly, my overall soil health.”

ANNIE DEEPickens County, Alabama