New conservation mentor program ready to help farmers succeed 

By Amie Simpson 

A new farmer-led mentor program, supported by the Indiana Soybean Alliance (ISA) and the Indiana Corn Marketing Council (ICMC), will help farmers implement conservation practices. Farm Advisors will connect interested farmers with mentors who have been implementing soil health practices on their own operations for decades. 

The famer mentor will be available to help with equipment advice, cover crop species recommendations, key conservation management decisions and more. 

During the official launch of the program last month in the Glass Barn at the Indiana State Fair, Jim Moseley, one of the group’s founding members, said it all boils down to providing a space where farmers can ask other farmers for advice. 

“We want to help farmers avoid mistakes and have more successful farm outcomes when adopting new conservation practices,” he said. “Individuals will be more willing to continue implementing those practices if they have a positive experience and can call someone with questions.” 

Mike Brocksmith, a farmer from southern Indiana, said building a legacy is important. 

“I want one of my legacies to be that of a soil conservationist, someone who put the land first,” he said. “That’s why this project is important to my family. Indiana is a leader in conservation and cover crops. That’s due to a lot of people in this room, and we should be very proud of that, but if we take a ride in the spring after heavy rain, we see there’s still work to do. That’s why we’re here, and we think what will make this group different is that we can truly share our passion, vision and love of the land and soil health.” 

A five-person board of farmers directs the overall program. The board includes Jamie Scott, Rodney Rulon, Mike Brocksmith, Cameron Mills and Dan DeSutter. The program, currently operating under the Conservation Cropping Systems Initiative (CCSI), aims to be operating on its own within three years. 

To learn more about the program and get involved as a mentor or mentee visit farmadvisors.ag.