Have you ever heard a farmer brag they’re determined to leave the farm worse than they found it? I haven’t either

Most farmers want to leave the farm to the next generation in better shape. But what does “better” refer to? Freshly painted buildings? New fences (or no fences)? Improving crop yields?

I hope that “better” also refers to your soil. Is the organic matter content increasing? Is the soil getting darker deeper in the profile?

How about water quality? Has surface drainage from the farm decreased? Is that runoff cleaner or is it taking tons of soil with it?

Since this column is in a “no-till” publication, you might guess we focus more on leaving the land better, more so than structures on the land. From a cropping standpoint, the improvements you make below the soil surface are the most valuable.

To help focus on soil health and water quality, check out these five multiple-choice questions. It’s not a pop quiz. Don’t mark an answer. Share this page with neighbors. Maybe ask these questions at your next event with farmers and rural folks.

(See answers at the end of the page.)

1. Which of these choices is the better way to build soil health?

1. Organic farming
2. Continuous no-till with cover crops
3. Subsoil every 5 years to reduce compaction
4. Shallow, high-speed tillage every spring

2. What is the best “destination” for raindrops (and melting snowflakes) on cropland?

1. Soak in where they land
2. Run off to a grass waterway or terrace
3. …