Building Soil Organic Matter with Organic Amendments

Posted September 2002

crop rowsIf you follow practices that build and maintain soil organic matter, especially through the addition of organic amendments, you will improve the quality of your soil, reducing compaction and crusting, and increasing drainage and water holding capacity. Plants will be healthier, may yield more, and will be more tolerant of drought, insects and diseases. You may also need less fertilizer because soil organic matter serves as a reservoir for plant nutrients. This paper describes soil organic matter, how it works to improve the soil, how to build it, characteristics of specific soil organic amendments, their production in Wisconsin, and guidelines for use.

Read the full report (PDF file)

CIAS is celebrating its 20th anniversary!

In 1989, farmers, farm and environmental groups, researchers, educators and other citizens joined forces to start CIAS. Twenty years later, we are recognized as one of eight national campus leaders in sustainable agriculture. We’ve worked across the state to put the Wisconsin Idea to work. Read about our accomplishments here.

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CIAS in the community

Ride to Farm

Ride to Farm

From June 12-14, a group of fearless riders braved the wind and hills of southern Wisconsin to raise money for, and awareness of, the Wisconsin School for Beginning Dairy and Livestock Farmers. The 2009 Ride to Farm covered about 200 miles. Ride stops included the farm of SBDF graduate Kyle Tews in Orfordville and Uplands Cheese in Dodgeville. Delicious dinners were provided by the Monroe and River Valley FFA chapters. Many thanks to all of our riders, supporters and sponsors!

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