Students in the midwest are tackling the challenges of healthy soils as part of the 2017 4-H Ag Innovators Experience (4-H AIE) activity. Sponsored by Monsanto, the two-part challenge was developed by The Ohio State University and focuses on soil composition, impacts of tillage, and new ways to farm. Teams of students in 4-H clubs, camps, after school programs, and enrichment classes conduct tests to determine soil health and then search for solutions to maintaining microbials and nutrients while minimizing the environmental impact. Students will have the opportunity to build a 1:64 scale no-till planter to gain a better understand of how to reduce agriculture’s carbon footprint.

“This program was created for students to get hands on experience and generate an understanding of the challenges farmers face,” said National 4-H Council President and CEO Jennifer Sirangelo. “We’re excited this program brings together students throughout their communities for an education on real-world problems and the opportunity to apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills for solutions.”