Dig In: Soil Project Invites Local Landowners to Grow Something New

If no one funds local news, your community is just rumors. Help Decorah News bring facts home. DECORAH — Area landowners and farmers will have an opportunity to learn about a regional soil health initiative and explore participation in its next cohort during a pair of upcoming information sessions. The Regenerating Soil and Community (RSC) Project will host sessions from 7 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, April 1, and from 1 to 2 p.m. Thursday, April 2, at Shirley Baker Commons. The public is invited to attend either session. The project is a collaborative partnership between Luther College, Northeast Iowa RC&D and the Winneshiek County Soil and Water Conservation District. It aims to support landowners and farmers interested in improving soil health and adopting regenerative farming practices. Attendees will have the chance to meet project team members and past cohort participants, learn about program activities and outcomes, and express interest in joining the 2026 cohort. Previous cohort members will be on hand to share firsthand how the project has impacted them. "We extend a warm welcome to learn more about this project, whose mission is to grow knowledge, networks and strengths to regenerate soil and community in Northeast Iowa," said Jodi Enos-Berlage on behalf of the RSC team. Program offerings include free soil sampling and testing, in-depth interviews to assess participant goals, educational sessions and workshops, and technical and financial support for conservation planning. Participants also gain access to a small cohort network and opportunities to collaborate with students and soil health professionals. "As landowners, RSC has given my family a better understanding of our soil health, helped us navigate relationships with our tenants, and opened doors to resources that make real change on our land," said Stacy Davi, a landowner from Frankville. "Plus, we've found an amazing network of support and inspiration along the way." "My dad told me, 'Take care of the land and it will take care of you,'" said Denise Buddenberg. "Farming has changed from plowing and chiseling to no-till and cover crops; new horizons are being learned from an amazing team." Project funding prioritizes women landowners and operators, beginning farmers, veterans, socially disadvantaged producers, and those with limited resources within a 25-mile radius of Decorah. For more information, organizers encourage interested individuals to contact project coordinators Jodi Enos-Berlage (enosbejo@luther.edu) or Sophia Campbell (sophia.campbell@dnr.iowa.gov). Stay connected and informed! Join the free newsletter for curated news, trending topics, and insider perspectives you won't find anywhere else.