Collaboration

At Kansas State University, we are leading the Kansas Soil Health Network (KSHN), a pioneering initiative dedicated to advancing soil health and sustainable agriculture across the state. Supported by partnerships with the Kansas Corn Commission, USDA, and The Nature Conservancy, KSHN combines research farms, on-farm trials, and farmer-led data collection to test and refine regenerative practices. With sites like K-State’s Lonsinger Farm and other demonstration locations, we’re providing Kansas farmers with the tools and knowledge to adopt climate-smart, soil-friendly practices that boost productivity and resilience. Our mission is to transform agriculture in Kansas through science-backed, regionally tailored soil health strategies.

Kansas Soil Health Network (KSHN)

KSHN is a collaborative initiative supported by the Kansas Corn Commission and USDA NIFA, aimed at improving soil health through on-farm research across Kansas.

Key Supporters: Kansas Corn Commission and USDA NIFA Sustainable Systems grant
Funding Impact: Over $350,000 provided by Kansas Corn Commission in the last six years, supporting additional sites in western Kansas for 2023-2024.

Missions & Goals

Objective: Identify and promote soil management practices that benefit both the environment and farmers.
Outcome: Provide data on climate-smart practices to support carbon and ecosystem markets, aiming to certify corn grown under soil health practices.
Impact: Over 700 participants reached in the past five years through field days at on-farm research trials.

KSHN Farms

Demonstration Sites for Innovative Practices

KSHN farms serve as learning hubs where farmers can explore advanced soil management techniques.

Target Farmers: Those interested in soil health, cover crops, conservation tillage, or nutrient management, with no expertise required.
Commitment: Farmers are expected to gather field and economic data, share results with others, and host field days.
Opportunity: Farmers get hands-on experience with profitable, sustainable farming techniques that could benefit their bottom line.

The Kansas Soil Health Network map showcases research sites across Kansas where K-State collaborates with local farmers to implement and study soil health practices, generating data to support sustainable and resilient agriculture statewide.

Partnering Research Farms

Nature Conservancy of Kansas

The Nature Conservancy in Kansas has established a 900-acre Demonstration and Research Farm to advance regenerative agriculture.

Location: Dickinson County, KS
Focus: Regenerative agriculture on cultivated fields and native pastures.
Advisory Committee: Led by K-State’s Chuck Rice (Learn more)

Lonsinger Farm

K-State's new property near Alton, KS, serves as a research hub for sustainable practices.

Location: Osborne County, central Kansas
Goal: Advance research in sustainability and regenerative practices.

Regenerative Agriculture and Market Opportunities

Advancing Nutrition and Profitability

Research shows regenerative agriculture may lead to more nutrient-dense food, creating opportunities in niche markets.

Benefits to Farmers: Enhanced profitability through no-till and cover crop practices.
Consumer Demand: Markets paying premiums for produce with higher nutritional content.
Environmental Impact: Practices foster soil health, crop resilience, and economic value through sustainable farming.

Get Involved with KSHN

Join Our Network

KSHN offers farmers a platform to experiment with regenerative practices and contribute to statewide efforts in sustainable agriculture.

Opportunities for Farmers: Participate in on-farm research, share insights, and shape the future of soil health in Kansas.
Stay Informed: Sign up for updates on field days, research findings, and new opportunities