Michigan Soil Health: WLEB 2025 Webinar Series Preview
By Graham Sustainability Institute
TL;DR: Michigan’s new program promotes soil health practices like precision nutrient management and erosion control to lessen phosphorus runoff in the Western Lake Erie Basin and build resilient agricultural supply chains.
- New program enhances soil health for resilient supply chains.
- Precision nutrient management reduces phosphorus runoff.
- Improved manure application strategies are being developed.
- Erosion control minimizes sediment and nutrient loss.
- Regenerative methods offer economic and environmental benefits.
Why it matters: Implementing soil health practices is crucial for reducing water pollution, enhancing agricultural productivity, and fostering long-term environmental sustainability.
Do this next: Explore the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy nonpoint source program for soil health information.
Recommended for: Farmers, agricultural policymakers, and environmental stewards interested in sustainable land management and water quality.
This webinar from Michigan's Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy nonpoint source program features experts Brittany Santure and Thad Cleary discussing soil health initiatives for resilient supply chains and phosphorus reduction in the Western Lake Erie Basin. Key practices include precision nutrient management, water management, and erosion control to minimize phosphorus and sediment runoff. Innovations highlighted involve manure application strategies, such as separating liquid portions for irrigation on growing crops during optimal seasons, avoiding wet fall or early spring applications that increase runoff risks. The program, launched in January, focuses on field-tested regenerative methods delivering healthier soils, stronger communities, and long-term supply chain resilience beyond basic sustainability. It emphasizes ecosystem restoration through proven techniques like timing nutrient applications precisely and structural erosion controls, fostering value creation for farmers via technical support and incentives. Insights extend to integrating these practices for measurable water quality improvements, soil regeneration, and economic viability, providing practitioners with actionable strategies from state-backed programs.