Gratiot Conservation District

08/31/2026

Regenerative agriculture is helping farmers build healthier, more resilient soils right here in Michigan. By using practices like no-till, cover crops, and precision soil sampling, long-term yield data shows fields becoming more stable and productive over time. In one local study, areas classified as “high and stable” increased by 28% after adopting regenerative practices—meaning more consistent yields and better resilience to weather extremes.

Yield stability maps are proving to be valuable tools for understanding soil health, guiding management decisions, and protecting our natural resources. Small changes in farming practices can make a big difference for soil, water, and long-term farm profitability! 🌱

Read more at:

08/29/2026

We have officially spotted a new invasive species in Michigan. It's not a threat to people, pets, or agriculture. If you see them, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has asked that you report it so that we can track the spread of it. Learn more about this bug and how to report here:
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/MIDNR/bulletins/41d5907

08/28/2026

Hours have been adjusted at four of the managed water fowl areas across the state. Learn more about the areas with adjusted here:

DNR announces adjusted hours at four managed waterfowl areas Michigan Department of Natural Resources sent this bulletin at 07/30/2026 05:35 PM EDT Share or view as webpage | Update preferences DNR News July 30, 2026Contact: Shannon Lott, 517-243-3166 DNR announces adjusted hours at four managed wat...

08/27/2026

🌲 Michigan private landowners: Save on property taxes by sustainably managing your forest land!
Enroll in MDARD's Qualified Forest Program (QFP) for the 2027 tax year.
⏳ Deadline: September 1, 2026
🌳 Requirement: 20+ acres
❌ Public Access: Not required
Apply with your forest management plan, deed, tax bill, and a $50 fee.
👇 Details and application forms here:morningagclips.com

LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is encouraging private landowners to enroll in the Qualified Forest Program (QFP) for...

08/27/2026

Not a fan of ticks? I don't think anybody is. Thankfully researchers have found something that might help stop disease spread. Check out this article to learn more about the protein they found:

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Few creatures inspire as much universal dislike as ticks. Though small, these parasites have an enormous impact on human and animal health....

08/26/2026

🚗 In case you haven't heard, it's time to sign up and bring your used tires out to the Gratiot County Fair for Youth on September 19th!

08/26/2026

Have your succession plans hit a road bump? Do you want your farm land to be used for farming even after you are gone? MIFarmLInk could be the solution! Sign up for one of these free informational sessions to learn more! The first one is September 4th!

⏰ We're going live in 1 hour! There's still time to join today's MIFarmLink Open Hour with GreenStone Farm Credit Services. Learn what to expect during the farm loan process, what lenders look for, and how to prepare for financing your operation.

🗓️ Today
⏰ 11:00 AM (ET)
🔗 Join here: https://macd-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/TeEBkhVQQXCzPjA7sOAQjw #/

We hope to see you soon!

08/25/2026

Do you want to hunt more deer than you have freezer space for? You can! Learn more about the donation program here:
https://sportsmenagainsthunger.org/plan-to-donate-a-deer-michigan-2026/

08/24/2026

We run into lots of producers who have bees on their property. Here is a little article on what it takes to sell your honey to the public.
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/rules-and-regulations-for-selling-honey-in-michigan?utm_source=cc&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=extensiondigests

08/22/2026

Don't let the big row crop farmers have all the cover crop fun. Your garden deserves the same nutrient, pest, and w**d protection the field next door does.