We are working to make Indiana a better place for everyone. We do this by adhering to our simple mission of education and advocacy for soil health on Indiana’s urban and diversified small-scale farms and gardens.

Because soil health is for everyone.

Our Story

The Urban Soil Health program started because we saw a need to support small-scale, diversified growers in Indiana to have better access to resources that support soil health and conservation for their unique growing conditions.

Initiated in 2021, Urban Soil Health started via a partnership agreement between the Indiana Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and the Indiana Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts (IASWCD).

Since its inception, the Urban Soil Health program has closely supported local staff of conservation agencies in the Indiana Conservation Partnership (ICP) through local-level events, trainings, and incentive payments.


Mission and Vision

We educate and advocate to improve soil health on Indiana’s urban and diversified small-scale farms and gardens.

We envision a thriving, diversified local food system in Indiana where conservation practices are integrated on all farms, and local partnerships in every county uplift environmental stewardship and success of urban and small-scale farmers and gardeners.

Why soil health?

Soil health management systems are key to environmental stewardship and growing healthy food. Soil health, crop health, animal and human health are interconnected.


Goals

ENHANCE local partnerships to form self-sustaining Working Groups across Indiana to address soil health in urban and small farm settings.

INCREASE the adoption of soil health management systems by urban and small-scale farmers and gardeners in production processes.

PROVIDE education to farmers and gardeners that operate diverse production systems. Co-learn from these growers’ expertise and practices.


What We Do

Our initiatives and overall approach have the power to improve growers in Indiana. Learn more about what we do and the resources we provide.


Our Impact

We are proud to share the stories and stats that demonstrate the difference we can make in the lives of growers in Indiana.


How You Can Help

Join our conservation farming community. Get involved locally, attend events and workshops to keep growing forward.