What are Your 2023 Conservation Resolutions?

2022 is coming to an end, which means it’s time to start thinking about what you want to work on in the new year. Setting resolutions can be hard, but we’re here to help!

If you would like to make a #ConservationResolution for 2023, here are some options to consider:

• Incorporate cover crops into your operation.
• Extend your growing season by using a high tunnel.
• Improve your soil health by utilizing no-till practices.
• Provide recreational opportunities and wildlife habitat by restoring wetlands.
• Reduce input costs by focusing on nutrient management.
• Protect topsoil and groundwater quality by devoting environmentally sensitive agricultural land to conservation benefits instead of farming.

Resolutions can be daunting and hard to stick to, but here are some tips for how to make them successful.

• Make a plan - To get started on your #ConservationResolutions, we recommend you stop by your local USDA service center, so we can discuss your vision for your land. The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) can provide you with free technical assistance and or advice.

• Don’t do it alone – USDA’s conservation programs available through NRCS and the Farm Service Agency (FSA) give you the tools and resources to protect environmentally sensitive land and restore grasslands, wetlands, and forests, which leads to cleaner water and air, healthier soil, and enhanced wildlife habitat. We can also help with financial assistance to help you achieve your #ConservationResolutions
• See what other landowners are doing - Learn about the benefits of conservation practices directly from the farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners applying them with our series of 90-second videos. Explore the different types of conservation practices by watching our Conservation at Work series. You can also read producer profiles on farmers.gov.

In December and January, we’ll be highlighting different #ConservationResolutions that can help protect our natural resources. Follow along to start yours!

Ciji Taylor is a public affairs specialist with the Farm Production and Conservation Business Center in Fairfield, Illinois.