Ohio Farm Family Wins Conservation Award for Century-Long Commitment to Soil Health

The Wolfe family's commitment to soil health has spanned nearly a century on their 1,500-acre operation in Fairfield County, Ohio. Mike Wolfe, who farms with his wife Maria and their son Tommy, attributes the family's conservation efforts to his grandfather Merrill's philosophy: 'If you take care of the land, the land will take care of you.'

Merrill began experimenting with innovative practices in 1929, including interseeding rye into corn during the 1930s. Mike has continued this tradition, implementing minimal till and cover crops on their farm, along with other conservation practices. He uses variable-rate technology, controlled traffic patterns, and prescription fertilizer applications based on comprehensive soil testing.

The Wolfes have made significant strides in reducing soil erosion and improving water quality through the installation of 21 water and sediment control basins (WASCOB), grass waterways, buffer strips, streambank restoration, and extensive tile drainage systems. They also feature 442 acres of cover crops, nutrient management plans on all ground, and participate in several conservation programs.

Mike credits his father Roger for promoting soil conservation and experimenting with no-till practices in the 1970s. He has continued to innovate, using technology such as precision agriculture and variable-rate technology to optimize their operations. The farm's commitment to efficiency extends to every operation, from fertilizer applications to sprayer usage.