ST. JACOB, IL (June 19, 2025) — Farmers across Southern and Central Illinois will have a unique opportunity to learn directly from their peers during an upcoming Soil Health Academy workshop, co-hosted by the SoIL Farmers for Soil Health network. The one-day event will be held July 9 at the regenerative farm of Dave and Dianne Wells, just outside of St. Jacob.

“There have been a lot of soil health events,” said host farmer Dave Wells, “but this is the first time many in our region will hear from farmers who are actually doing this—planting cover crops, reducing inputs, and finding a simpler, more profitable way to farm.”

The Wells family, who now cover crop all of their acres, began their soil health journey gradually—starting small, making mistakes, and ultimately finding a better path. Their goals: reduce stress, cut input costs, and leave the land better than they found it.

The workshop will feature hands-on demonstrations and farmer-led discussions focused on row crop systems. A follow-up livestock-focused workshop will take place August 14 in nearby St. Rose, IL.

Attendees will learn how regenerative practices can improve soil health, build resilience, and enhance profitability—not by doing more, but often by doing less. “It’s about practical steps, shared experiences, and support from a network of farmers who’ve been there,” Wells said.

The event is open to farmers, ag professionals, and anyone interested in learning more about regenerative agriculture in action.

Register here: https://soilhealthacademy.regfox.com/soil-health-academy-x-soil-farmers-network-soil-field-day-