Water Quality a Priority for Farmers and Ranchers
Water is a crucial resource for farmers and ranchers, not only for keeping their crops, forage, and livestock healthy, but also as part of their families' and communities' water supply.
Farmers and ranchers protect water quality through various practices, including conservation tillage, cover crops, nutrient management, and livestock practices that reduce runoff.
Conservation Practices
- Conservation tillage and cover cropping to protect against erosion and improve soil water retention
- Keeping water and nutrients, such as fertilizer, in the field
- Reducing runoff to preserve water quality
Conservation tillage and cover cropping help keep water and nutrients in the field, reducing runoff and improving soil water retention.
This approach focuses on improving land's water retention, reducing runoff, and protecting water quality.
Author's summary: Farmers prioritize water quality through conservation practices.