Ask the Expert: The 5S of Soil Sampling
Collecting consistent, quality soil data can make all the difference in understanding your soil carbon and fertility trends. Graham Gilchrist, PAg, shares a simple “5S” approach for taking samples the same time, place, depth, and way each year.

Recycling ag plastics doesn’t have to be complicated. Through Cleanfarms’ Alberta programs, farmers can recycle grain bags, baler twine, and more — turning farm waste into useful products instead of burn piles. Inspired by our What a Waste seminar, this article shares where to find your nearest collection site, easy first steps from APRG’s Assar Grinde, and tips to make plastic recycling part of your operation.

Fresh forage in the middle of winter? Fodder systems make it possible. From a basement setup at Titan Ranch to a larger cattle-feeding system at Warrior Rizen Ranch, Alberta producers are experimenting with sprouted grain as a supplement to winter rations. Learn how fodder works, and see examples you can scale to your own operation.

Welcome Jessica back into her new role as Assistant Manager at Farming Forward.

Good soil tests start with good sampling. In this article and video, we show how to take and prepare a soil sample using a Dutch auger, from clearing plant residue and pulling cores to mixing and preparing the final sample for the lab. Farming Forward members can rent a Dutch auger for free, get help submitting samples, and receive discounted soil test rates — plus, our new soil sampling truck will be ready soon.