Back (again!) by popular demand, USDA and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Illinois are celebrating No-Till November. This fall, NRCS encourages America’s agricultural producers to keep the stubble and give their farm a more rugged, natural look. According to State Conservationist Ivan Dozier, “There are still many farmers who till fields up during the fall and expose the soil to harsh winter winds and weather, but there are so many good reasons not to.” Here are a few reasons to “Go No-Till”:

• No-till improves soil health by not disturbing soil microbiology. Beneficial soil microbes are essential for growing food, fiber, and fuel.
• No-till improves the soil’s water holding capacity and keeps soils in place, preventing harmful runoff and erosion.
• No-till saves time, money (fuel) and wear on equipment. It’s an economically-sound choice.
 
Leave it be, let it grow!

Illinois NRCS will be sharing information, ideas, and stories about no-till on the #NRCSIllinois twitter site all month. “Join us, by tagging us in your posts showing off your beautiful untilled fields, or a #KeepTheStubble selfie using our cutout beard,” adds Dozier.  Download the cutout here.