#United States #Morrisville #Sustainable Agriculture #Soil Health Institute #ASA Presidential Award

Celebrating a Decade of Soil Health

The Soil Health Institute (SHI) recently marked its 10th anniversary as a pioneering global organization focused on enhancing and safeguarding the vitality of soils. This milestone was celebrated during the American Society of Agronomy's CANVAS meeting in Salt Lake City, where the organization received the prestigious ASA Presidential Award. This accolade honors those who have significantly influenced agronomic sciences and practices that will shape future advancements in agriculture.

Founded in 2015, SHI has diligently worked to translate scientific knowledge about soil health into actionable practices for farmers and ranchers. Their goal is to foster regenerative agricultural systems that not only improve soil health but also enhance climate resilience and public health. With over 30 remote employees as well as a central office in North Carolina, SHI has expanded its impact across North America and beyond.

Major Achievements in Ten Years

Under the leadership of its founding CEO and President, Dr. C. Wayne Honeycutt, SHI has accomplished numerous feats over the past decade:

1. Encouraging Sustainable Practices: Demonstrated the business case for adopting soil health practices on more than 160 farms, showing economic viability and environmental benefits.
2. Standardizing Measurements: Identified cost-effective measurements of soil health that are now endorsed by the USDA and used across all 50 states.
3. Benchmarking Progress: Established soil health benchmarks on over 19 million acres, providing farmers with insights into how to improve soil health and increase water storage capabilities.
4. Educating the Next Generation: Delivered educational programs in 35 states and three provinces, equipping farmers with the knowledge needed to transition to healthier soil practices.

SHI's commitment to advancing soil science has garnered support from numerous funders, including major corporations and foundations such as Cargill, General Mills, and Patagonia. This diverse funding base reflects a shared commitment to sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship.

Looking Ahead to Future Leadership

As SHI enters its second decade, it is poised for new leadership with the announcement of its second CEO and President expected in December. This transition signals a fresh vision for SHI as it continues to advocate for soil health initiatives and research.

Join the Celebration

To mark the anniversary, SHI will host a free virtual 10th Anniversary Meeting on December 3-4, inviting participants to learn more about the organization's programs and future direction. This event promises to be an informative gathering for anyone interested in the future of sustainable agriculture and soil health practices.

The Bigger Picture

The mission of the Soil Health Institute extends beyond just improving soils; it envisions a world where quality food, fiber, and fuel can be produced sustainably. By promoting the adoption of soil health systems, SHI aims to benefit farmers, rural communities, and the overall environment.

To learn more about their initiatives and how to participate, people can visit their official website at www.soilhealthinstitute.org or follow them on social media platforms like YouTube, LinkedIn, and Facebook. With continued dedication and innovation, SHI is sure to remain a vital player in the push for healthier soils and sustainable agricultural practices.