Controlling soil erosion and protecting our rivers and streams, no matter how big or small, is the goal of the Huntington County Soil and Water Conservation District. The SWCD continues to develop new partnerships with neighboring counties and other organizations to promote conservation practices that will protect and preserve our natural resources.
In 2012, Huntington County SWCD entered into a new partnership with Whitley, Allen and Wells counties SWCDs to secure a 2012 Clean Water Indiana grant. Through this grant the SWCDs will promote the use of conservation practices and provide funding for cost-share programs for seeding cover crops, pasture/hay plantings and equipment modifications.
In September 2012, as an initial outreach effort, the partnering SWCDs hosted a Conservation and Agriculture Technology Workshop in Huntington County. At the workshop, guests received information about calibrating yield monitors for combines, the proper mixing of chemicals and the importance of the use, cleaning and/or disposal of mixing containers used on the farm. Cover crops were also highlighted at the event with a sample plot showing the different varieties of cover crops available and equipment used for seeding cover crops. Guest speakers provided information about the importance of adding cover crops to your crop rotation and how to determine the best seed type and application for your farm.
In 2012, Huntington County had one application completed for seeding cover crops in the Little River Watershed area. A total of 93 acres of Annual Rye Grass and 59 acres of a soil builder mix were seeded.
Building partnerships within our county as well as branching out to our watershed partners, is a key component in protecting our natural resources.