Phase 2 of the Healthy Soils, Healthy Waters project is now underway in Michigan’s Western Lake Erie Basin, continuing a five-year collaborative research effort led by Dr. Jennifer Blesh of the University of Michigan in partnership with Michigan State University.
The initiative, funded by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, runs from May 2024 through April 2029. Its goal is to conduct on-farm, collaborative research to better understand the links between soil health and water quality — while supporting farmers in adopting regenerative practices that improve both.
Phase 1: Establishing the Baseline
The first phase focused on connecting field management histories with soil health outcomes and nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) use efficiency. Researchers examined key regenerative practices of interest, including:
- Reduced or no tillage
- Cover crops and perennials
- Diverse crop rotations
- Integration of crops and livestock
- Reduced input systems
Soil sampling was completed across:
- 75 row crop fields
- 21 specialty crop fields
- 10 woodlots
- Representing 46 farms across the basin
This baseline data provides one of the most comprehensive looks at how management decisions influence soil function and nutrient efficiency in the region.
Phase 2: Tracking Change Over Time
With 34 fields now enrolled, Phase 2 shifts from observation to tracking measurable change. Over the next three years, researchers will monitor how soil health responds to regenerative management practices already being implemented on participating farms.
Fields will be re-sampled in fall 2027 to evaluate improvements in soil structure, organic matter, biological activity, and nutrient retention.
The goal: determine whether regenerative systems measurably enhance soil function while reducing the risk of nutrient runoff into Lake Erie.
Phase 3: Looking Beyond the Field
Phase 3 is already in development and will expand the research to include edge-of-field water quality monitoring. Eight fields are currently enrolled in this upcoming phase, in which researchers will measure how improved soil systems translate to changes in nutrient movement off the field.
A Long-Term Investment in Soil and Water
By pairing farmer experience with university research, Healthy Soils, Healthy Waters aims to deliver practical, science-backed strategies that strengthen farm resilience, improve nutrient efficiency, and protect water resources across the Western Lake Erie Basin.
As Phase 2 begins, the project continues to demonstrate that building healthier soils is a critical step toward cleaner water and a more sustainable agricultural future for Michigan.
Farmers Blend meetings are held each month. Visit www.lenawee.michfb.com or the Lenawee County Facebook page for more information on upcoming meetings.