Upcoming MSU field day dives into soil health, regenerative farming

Farmers, growers, agricultural professionals and community members are invited to attend the annual Farming for the Future Field Day on Thursday, Aug. 13, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Michigan State University (MSU) AgBioResearch West Central Michigan Research and Extension Center, located at 5185 N. Oceana Dr., Hart, MI 49420.

Hosted in partnership by the Oceana Conservation District, MSU Extension and Oceana County Farm Bureau, the event will focus on practical strategies to improve soil health, strengthen farm resiliency and support long-term agricultural sustainability. The field day is supported by a Regenerative Agriculture Education and Outreach Grant from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Participants will have the opportunity to learn from industry experts and fellow growers about regenerative farming practices that can improve productivity while enhancing environmental stewardship. Educational sessions will include information on orchard ground cover management and integrated pest management practices that support soil health and may increase profitability and farm resilience.

Attendees will also learn how to conduct their own soil health assessments and hear from local fruit buyers about sustainability and regenerative agriculture programs within their supply chains.

The event will feature demonstrations of innovative agricultural equipment and technologies, including an electric weeder and roller crimper. Demonstrations will include drone seeding of cover crops into asparagus fields and alternative orchard mowing equipment designed to support regenerative production systems. Growers will also learn about the Regenerative Pear Grower Network and available assistance for implementing regenerative practices on their operations.

This event is free to attend, and a catered lunch will be provided. Pre-registration by Aug. 10 is required. For questions, contact Emily Lavely at lavelyem@msu.edu.