Farmers Share Sustainable Soil, Water Practices

Lee Kinnard. Submitted.

Four area farmers will speak about their efforts to farm sustainably during a Climate Change Coalition of Door County panel discussion, “Soil Health and the Benefits of Regenerative Agriculture.” It will take place at the Kress Pavilion, 7845 Church St. in Egg Harbor, on Jan. 13, 7 pm.

Lauren Brey, a fourth-generation dairy farmer in Sturgeon Bay and co-owner of Brey Cycle Farm, will talk about rotational grazing and the other conservation techniques that her farm uses to improve soil health and water quality, including cover crops and no-till farming.

Lee Kinnard of Kinnard Farms – a family-owned dairy and crop farm in Kewaunee County that has adopted various sustainable practices to protect and enhance soil and water resources – will discuss manure and carbon sequestration. 

Mike Polich, a fourth-generation dairy farmer, will speak about organic farming. After his father sold his herd, Polich and his wife, Katie, purchased the farm, bought 50 cows and started transitioning the land and animals to organic methods. 

Chris Schuh of Door Karma Farms – which incorporates many climate-friendly practices such as solar well pumps, buffer strips, fallow zones and wildlife-restoration zones – will explain composting techniques. 

Jamie Patton, a senior outreach specialist with UW-Madison’s Nutrient and Pest Management Program, will moderate the discussion. She’ll offer an introduction to soil and the connection between soil health and carbon sequestration, engage the panelists in a discussion and host a Q&A with the audience.

All attendees are asked to wear masks. The program is free, but donations are appreciated to support the Climate Change Coalition’s work. The event will also be livestreamed. To learn more and register, visit climatechangedoorcounty.com.