Farming is a business, and like any business, it is important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies. The Shiawassee Conservation District has partnered with the Shiawassee County Farm Bureau and Natural Resources Conservation Service to offer a Farming for the Future III Workshop on Thursday, March 29. This workshop is the third in the Farming for the Future series, designed to help farmers stay on top of the agriculture industry’s latest information. The workshop will be from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Owosso Charter Township Hall on Delaney Road in Owosso.
Drainage water management helps farmers manage water on their fields to increase production, keep nutrients in the field and protect water quality. USDA-ARS agricultural engineer Lindsay Pease will discuss conservation drainage research, phosphorus losses in the Midwest, and what farmers can do to protect natural resources utilizing conservation drainage management.
Cultural resources are all the past activities and accomplishments of people. They include objects, landscapes, structures and sites. State Historic Preservation Office archaeologist Stacy Tchorzynski will talk about how conservation practices may have the potential to impact cultural resources, and how farmers can learn to become more aware of their role in documenting historic finds.
Farmers can cut input costs, maintain production, protect soil and water resources, reduce the nation’s dependence on fossil fuels and save money through energy conservation. Natural Resources Conservation Service environmental engineer Suzanne Reamer will discuss energy uses on farming operations, how an energy audit can save money, and what assistance is available through Natural Resources Conservation Service for energy savings.
“This workshop will highlight innovative conservation measures that will protect our environment while enhancing farming operations,” states Shiawassee Conservation District Executive Director Melissa Higbee. “It will also draw attention to the significance of historical and cultural resources found on farmland.”
Guests will have an opportunity to earn three RUP and a MAEAP Phase 1 credit. A catered lunch will be served. There is no charge to attend this workshop, but an RSVP is required. To register, contact the Shiawassee Conservation District office at (989) 723-8263, ext. 3, or send an email to shiawasseecd@gmail.com.
