By Blake Jackson
As farmers continue to navigate challenging economic conditions, a renewed conservation initiative is offering financial support to producers who adopt cover crops while improving soil health and long-term farm sustainability.
The Farmers for Soil Health (FSH) Program has relaunched for 2026 with updated incentives designed to encourage wider participation among growers.
To introduce the revamped program, the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) and the Wisconsin Soybean Program will host two free “Cash for Cover Crops” workshops on June 25 in Wisconsin.
The first session will take place from 10 a.m. to noon at the Arlington Agricultural Research Station, while a second event is scheduled from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Crossroads Supper & Banquet Hall in Platteville.
Attendees will learn about the benefits and opportunities available through the FSH program. Dr. Shawn Conley, a director with the Wisconsin Soybean Association and soybean and small grains specialist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, will discuss the strong relationship between soybean production and cover crop use.
Farmers and researchers from across Wisconsin will also participate in a panel discussion focused on soil health practices. Additionally, UW-Madison Climate Outreach Specialist Amanda Latham will speak during the Arlington event.
Although attendance is free and open to the public, organizers encourage participants to register by June 16. Meals will be provided following both workshops.
Established in 2023 through a partnership involving the soy checkoff, pork checkoff, and National Corn Growers Association, Farmers for Soil Health promotes conservation practices that enhance profitability while protecting natural resources.
Benefits of cover crops include improved soil organic matter, better weed control, reduced nutrient losses, and increased carbon storage.
“There’s no end to the creativity of my fellow farmers when they try different things,” says Dallas, Wis., farmer Andy Bensend, who represents Wisconsin on the United Soybean Board. “We’re always learning new things, and with cover crops – there’s a boatload of benefits.”
The updated program offers one-year contracts, payments of $35 per acre, eligibility for all acres regardless of prior management practices, a 2,000-acre cap per FSA farm entity, enrollment guidance, peer support, and compatibility with many other conservation incentive programs.
“Our mission at CTIC is really helping growers maintain natural resources while maintaining productivity and profitability,” said Theresa Pedretti, CTIC’s senior soil health specialist.
“Everyone on our team is well versed in cover crops, and we also have cover crop coaches who are available to help other farmers with their in-depth questions or want a sounding board for ideas.”
For more information, visit https://ctic.org/farmers-for-soil-health-inquiry/.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-mvburling
Categories: Wisconsin, Crops, Education