Developing Diagnostics to Improve Water Quality and Soil Health on Tile Drained Lands in Minnesota and Wisconsin

The purpose of this project is to promote continued improvement in agricultural productivity, soil health, and water quality, Discovery Farms Programs of WI and MN are partnering to 1) provide the tools for farmers and farm advisors to diagnose and treat fields with high nutrient losses through tile drains and 2) understand the link between tile drainage and soil health and 3) increase access to conservation practices related to monitoring currently offered by NRCS. At least 24 farmers in each state will have the opportunity to utilize data from their personal fields to understand the mechanisms and timing of nutrient cycling. Participants will understand and implement management changes that reduce nitrogen and phosphorus loss through agricultural tile drainage and increase soil health.