Ground Rules: An Evening of Soil Health, Supper & Straight Talk

Healthy soil isn’t just dirt—it’s one of the smartest long-term investments a farmer can make.

That’s why Ashland Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) is inviting area farmers, landowners, and conservation-minded folks to dig into the details at their upcoming Conservation Chat: Ground Rules on Tuesday, March 11 at 5:00 p.m. at the Freer Field Community Room, 1301 Park Street, Ashland.

The event brings together experts and local resources to talk soil health, agronomic practices that actually work, and the latest updates on cost-share opportunities—without the fluff.

“This is a great opportunity for farmers to sit down together, share ideas, ask questions, and learn about tools and programs that can help them meet their agronomic and conservation goals,” said Ashland SWCD director Jane Houin.

Tickets include dinner and are just $5, but when you register with a friend, you both get to attend for free.

Greg LaBarge of Ohio State University Extension will kick things off by covering proven agronomic practices that make a real difference in building soil health and long-term productivity. From practical management strategies to the “why” behind healthy soils, LaBarge will help farmers connect the dots between soil stewardship and farm success.

Attendees will also hear the latest updates on Ohio’s H2Ohio program from Kip Studer of the Ohio Department of Agriculture, including current opportunities and the state’s nutrient management cost-share options designed to support conservation efforts on working lands.

Rounding out the evening, Ashland SWCD’s Zoey Dudte will explain the district’s soil testing services—what those results actually mean, how to interpret them, and how they can be used to make informed decisions on the farm.

Whether you’re looking to fine-tune your nutrient management plan, learn more about soil testing, or stay up to date on H2Ohio cost-share opportunities, Conservation Chat: Ground Rules offers practical information you can take straight back to the field.

Pre-registration is required, and tickets can be reserved at groundrules.eventbrite.com. For more information, contact Zoey Dudte at Ashland SWCD at 419-281-7645 or at zoeydudte@ashlandswcd.com