Nick Stokman, Christine Brown, Woody Van Arkel, Dr. Laura Van Eerd, Henry Denotter, Anne Loeffler, just to name a few from recent years, have all been recognized for their commitment to excellence in soil management by being named winners of the OSCIA Soil Champion award.

The Soil Champion award is presented annually. The selection committee may award the recognition for one or both of the categories – Producer, and Research/Extension. Both recognize individuals committed to sustainable soil management and advocates for the cause.

• Producer – those engaged in production agriculture who have devoted years to developing, applying and promoting soil management practices that contribute to the sustainable productivity of the soil; or,
• Research and Extension – professionals whose work demonstrates a long-term commitment to advancing our understanding of soil health and achieving sustainable production systems that safeguard our natural resources.

Sustainable soil management practices may be defined as those that:

• Make the most efficient use of nutrients.
• Support systems with no net loss of organic matter and soil aggregate stability.
• Build the population and diversity of soil organisms.
• Effectively manages surface water to support reduced tillage systems.

The background of the prospective soil champion is captured in the nomination form, as is the nominees’ accomplishments and activities. The form collects information on how the nominee is an advocate for soil management, which soil management practices are used on their farm and how those can have broader implications, as well as any innovative ideas or technologies that have been put into practice. Photos, stories, report summaries and other documents to support the nomination are strongly encouraged.

Are you a soil champion, or know someone deserving of the honour? Fill out a nomination form and send it to kpentland@ontariosoilcrop.org  by November 1, 2023. To qualify, an individual must be a resident of Ontario and have contributed to soil management in a way that improves soil health, supports sustainable crop production, and is environmentally friendly.

For details on previous years’ winners, or to access the nomination form, please visit the OSCIA website: https://www.ontariosoilcrop.org/oscia-soil-champion-award/.