Demonstration Farm
Demonstration Plots on County Farm Agricultural Land
Showcasing Conservation in Action
In 2024, the DeKalb County Soil & Water Conservation District began utilizing 12 acres of county-owned agricultural land to demonstrate innovative conservation practices. This space features nine demonstration plots, each approximately 0.64 acres, representing a progression of strategies—from simple to advanced—that support soil health and sustainable farming.
Soil Testing and Ongoing Research
We partner with an independent agronomist to perform regular soil testing across all plots. These tests help us track improvements over time and provide valuable data to refine our conservation strategies. Continuous monitoring ensures our practices are not only innovative—but effective.
What We're Demonstrating
Our primary focus is on cover crops, especially multi-species mixes, to explore practical applications and assess the benefits for both soil health and farmer profitability. These test plots aim to:
Showcase real-world cover crop practices
Evaluate the effectiveness of multi-species mixes
Promote the environmental and economic value of conservation agriculture
Why Cover Crops?
Cover crops are grown primarily for the soil’s benefit rather than for crop yield. They offer many advantages, including:
Reducing Soil Erosion: Soil erosion is a major concern for farmers, as it can lead to the loss of fertile topsoil and decrease land productivity. Cover crops act as a protective layer, shielding the soil from wind and water erosion. Their roots also help to anchor the soil, reducing the rate at which it is carried away by natural forces.
Improving Soil Structure: The roots of cover crops enhance soil structure by creating pores and channels. This improves soil aeration and allows subsequent crops to penetrate the soil more effectively. Improved soil structure also facilitates water movement, reducing the risk of waterlogging and increasing drought resilience.
Enhancing Water Infiltration: Cover crops improve water infiltration by increasing organic matter and creating a more porous soil structure. This helps to reduce runoff and allows more water to penetrate the soil, recharging groundwater reserves and providing moisture for crops during dry periods.
Providing Habitat for Beneficial Organisms: Cover crops serve as habitats for various beneficial organisms, including earthworms, insects, and microorganisms. These organisms are crucial in nutrient cycling, soil aeration, and pest control. By fostering a healthy soil ecosystem, cover crops contribute to long-term soil fertility and productivity.
Suppressing Weeds: Cover crops can effectively suppress weeds by outcompeting them for light, water, and nutrients. Some cover crops, such as rye and buckwheat, release natural chemicals that inhibit weed growth. This reduces the need for herbicides and promotes a more sustainable farming system.
Managing Soil Fertility: Cover crops, particularly legumes, can fix atmospheric nitrogen and add it to the soil. This enhances soil fertility and reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers. Cover crops also help prevent nutrient leaching by capturing and recycling nutrients that would otherwise be lost.
Breaking Pest and Disease Cycles: Incorporating cover crops into crop rotations can help to break pest and disease cycles. Different cover crops can disrupt the life cycles of pests and pathogens, reducing their populations and minimizing the need for chemical controls. This leads to healthier crops and a more resilient farming system.
Engaging & Educating the Community
We're dedicated to making conservation accessible and impactful through community outreach and hands-on learning. Our demonstration plots come to life during field days, workshops, and student programs, where participants can see sustainable practices in action.
These interactive experiences not only educate—they inspire. By connecting with students, farmers, and community members, we’re helping to cultivate the next generation of agricultural leaders and foster a deeper, lasting commitment to soil health and sustainability.
Thank you, DeKalb County Commissioners, for allowing us to utilize this space to demonstrate the power of conservation for agriculture in DeKalb County.
The Power of Multi-Species Mixes
Unlike single-species planting, multi-species cover crops offer a wider range of benefits. Each species plays a unique role, from nitrogen fixation to deep-root growth. Together, they create a more resilient and balanced soil ecosystem, improving long-term sustainability.
Pollinator Plot: Supporting Biodiversity
We’ve also established a pollinator plot on the east side of the site. This space highlights the importance of native plants and the critical role pollinators play in maintaining a healthy ecosystem. It’s a vibrant educational tool for both students and the community.