These training resources are designed to aid in learning about or instructing others on the management and improvement of soil health on small-scale and organic farms, which can lead to increased organic matter, diverse soil organisms, reduced compaction, and improved nutrient storage and cycling.
In-person Training Materials
Soil Health for Small-Scale Agriculture in-person training
This class will focus on applying soil health evaluation and management to small-scale and urban agricultural systems.
Cover Crops for Soil Health - Eastern U.S. in-person training
This training course serves to expand the knowledge and application of cover crops as an integral part of a full soil health management system in the eastern United States.
Cover Crops for Soil Health - Western U.S. in-person training
This training course serves to expand the knowledge and application of cover crops as an integral part of a full soil health management system in the western United States.
Soil Health and Sustainability for Field Staff (SHAFS-3.0) in-person training
This is an introductory soil health course designed for those with limited or no previous soil health experience or exposure.
Small-scale and Organic Webinars
Benefits of Agroforestry in Transitioning and Organic Systems
Ecosystem Management in Towns and Cities
Environmental Benefits of Organic Agriculture: Soil
Improving Soil Health on Urban Farms
NRCS Support for Organic Transition
Nutrient Budgeting: Organic Considerations for Implementing NRCS CPS 590
Organic Cover Cropping and Intercropping
Organic Farming and Soil Health
Preventative Healthcare in Organic Dairy Production
Residue and Tillage Management in Organic Farming Systems: Central States
Residue and Tillage Management in Organic Farming Systems: Western States
Soil Health in Organic High Tunnels
Soil Life in Organic Farming: The Role of Soil Organisms in Soil Health and Resource Conservation
The Role of Plant Genetics in Soil Health: Selecting Crop Cultivars for Organic Production
Why "Organic" Matters - Soil Organic Matter, Soil Health and USDA-Certified Organic Farming
Training Videos
Soil Health and Sustainability for Field Staff
This is an introductory soil health course designed for those with limited or no previous soil health experience or exposure. Attendees will learn the basics of soil ecology as it relates to soil health, as well as the principles of making successful soil health management systems (SHMS). Students will also learn about the resource concerns that can be addressed by SHMS and create a mock soil health management plan. Additional topics include the social and economic aspects of managing agricultural operations for soil health.