From Soil to Solutions: Our Commitment to Sustainability

As the year draws to a close, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the impact we’ve made together and looking ahead to the possibilities that lie before us. At Cedar Circle Farm and Education Center, we believe that healthy soil is the foundation of a sustainable future. It’s not just about what we grow—it’s about how we grow it, and how we can inspire others to value soil health in their own practices.

Why Soil Health Matters

Soil is more than just dirt; it’s a living, breathing ecosystem teeming with microorganisms that play a crucial role in growing nutritious food, sequestering carbon, and combating climate change. By improving the biology of the soil—feeding it and disturbing it as little as possible—we’re able to enhance its quality, making it stronger, more resilient to erosion, and less reliant on off-farm inputs.

For farmers, healthier soil means reduced costs and less dependency on fossil fuels for transporting fertilizers and amendments. For consumers, it means better quality food grown in a way that nurtures the planet. Supporting soil health is an investment in a healthier, more sustainable future for everyone.

Our Commitment to Soil Health: No-Till Research Trial

This year, we launched a formal 3-year no-till research trial supported by a Specialty Crop Block Grant. This project is a cornerstone of our efforts to understand and promote soil health. By minimizing soil disturbance and focusing on feeding the life within the soil, we aim to demonstrate the tangible benefits of no-till practices for farms like ours and beyond.

In addition to the formal trial, we’re conducting informal experiments across the farm to continually improve our practices. These trials help us gather data, refine our methods, and share valuable insights with our community of farmers and gardeners. By prioritizing soil health, we’re not just improving our own land—we’re creating a model for others to follow.

Why Research Matters

At Cedar Circle, we see our farm as a hub for climate action and community education. Research is central to this vision. It allows us to:

• Develop innovative growing practices that address climate resilience and reduce carbon emissions.
• Expose young learners to the magic of living soils.
• Foster a deeper understanding of the connections between healthy soil, healthy food, and a healthy planet.

Research doesn’t just benefit us as farmers—it benefits everyone who enjoys our natural resources such as the rivers and streams and, honestly, everyone who eats. When you support Cedar Circle, you’re supporting a movement toward responsible consumption and sustainable agriculture. Together, we can create a future where farms like ours are part of the solution to the climate crisis.

Looking Ahead: Your Role in the Future of Soil Health

Your support makes our work possible. As we look to the future, we’re eager to expand our research efforts, including projects like establishing perennial food plots that further address climate resiliency and carbon sequestration. With your help, we can continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible, sharing knowledge and practices that benefit our community and the planet.

By donating to Cedar Circle this year, you’re not just supporting a farm; you’re investing in a healthier, more sustainable world. Join us in prioritizing soil health, fostering resilience, and building a future we can all be proud of.

Together, we can grow more than crops—we can grow solutions. Click here to make a tax-deductible gift today.