On Thursday, August 28, 2025, The Ohio State University at Lima will host a Soil Health and Water Management Field Day, bringing together experts, educators, conservation professionals, and members of the public to explore innovative solutions for improving soil and water stewardship in agriculture.
The event, organized by Ohio State University Extension, The Ohio State University at Lima, and the Ohio No-Till Council, will run from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and will be held at Galvin Hall, located at 4240 Campus Drive, Lima, OH 45804.
The day will feature a series of field demonstrations and educational sessions focused on sustainable practices. Participants will have the opportunity to tour cover crop plots, observe overhead and subirrigation systems, and learn about the design and function of water retention ponds. These demonstrations are aimed at highlighting practical strategies to enhance water efficiency, reduce runoff, and support long-term soil health.
A lineup of guest speakers will share their expertise throughout the day. Presenters include Clint Schroeder from OSU Extension, Christine Charles from Michigan State University Extension, Dr. Vinayak Shedekar from OSU’s College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences, and Andy Farnham of AG Irrigation. A farmer panel will also be featured, offering real-world insights and discussion around the application of conservation practices in working farm systems.
The field day is open to a wide audience, including farmers, agency personnel, extension educators, students, and interested members of the public. Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) credits will be available for those seeking continuing education in the field.
Registration is $25 per person, which includes a catered lunch provided by Old Barn Out Back. Pre-registration is encouraged due to limited space, but payment will only be accepted on the day of the event. Cash or check only.
The event is made possible with the support of several sponsors, including AG Irrigation / Valley Irrigation, Lower 48 Instruments, SARE, and The Nature Conservancy Ohio. Project partners include the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, Ohio Department of Agriculture, Allen Soil and Water Conservation District, Ohio Land Improvement Contractors of America, and The Ohio State University at Lima. Funding support is provided by the EPA, Ohio State University Sustainability Institute, Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, and Ohio Sea Grant.
To register, visit go.osu.edu/limafieldday. For more information, contact Garth McDorman at 419-879-9108 or mcdorman.15@osu.edu.