The Sustainable Farming Association, in partnership with Lake of the Woods and Roseau County SWCDs, is launching a soil health & water quality focused learning exchange in Northwest Minnesota. While many similar events are held in central and southern parts of the state, distance can be a barrier to participation for our northern farmers and ranchers. This region has unique opportunities: greater crop diversity, lower land values, and more livestock—all opportunities that create a unique context. Together with local SWCDs and partner organizations, we aim to host a valuable, one-day learning exchange that equips farmers and communities with practical tools to improve soil, protect water, and strengthen ecosystems. Join us in making this inaugural gathering a success!

Schedule Overview

8 AM Registration and networking with coffee and light breakfast

9 AM Welcome

9:15 AM “Regenerating Soil First Farming” with Dr. Kris Nichols

10:30-11 AM Break & Networking

11-12:15 Breakout Sessions

12:15-1:15 PM Lunch

1:15-2:15 PM Breakout sessions

2:15-2:45 PM Break & Networking

2:45-3:45 PM “Regenerating Soil to Regenerate Water Quality” with Dr. Kris Nichols

3:45-4 PM Break & Networking

4-4:45 PM “How to Apply What You Heard Today” Farmer Panel moderated by Kim Melton, Red River Basin Commission

4:45-5 PM Final words and wrap-up

Registration

Advance registration required, no walkups. Lunch, coffee, and light breakfast provided. SFA members can register for $25, nonmembers for $35. Members must log in to see member pricing. Learn more about joining SFA here.

Keynote Speaker

Dr. Kris Nichols is the founder and principal scientist of KRIS (Knowledge for Regeneration and Innovation in Soils) Systems. Kris is a research consultant with Food Water Wellness Foundation in Olds, Alberta and MyLand Company Inc. in Phoenix, Arizona. She has worked for Canadian Organic Growers, the Rodale Institute, and USDA-Agricultural Research Service. Kris advisor to the Real Organic Project; Savory Institute’s – Ecological Outcome Verification program, McCain’s Farms of the Future; and Health First. She has Bachelor of Science degrees in Plant Biology and Genetics and Cell Biology, a Master’s degree in Environmental Microbiology, and a Ph.D. in Soil Science. Kris has given over 300 invited presentations throughout the world; authored or co-authored more than 30 peer-reviewed publications; and been cited or interviewed for more than 100 magazine or newspaper articles, multiple books, numerous podcast and online videos, and three documentaries.

Dr. Nichols will be leading two sessions:

Regenerating Soil First Farming (9:15 AM) Healthy soil is not the starting point—it’s the result. In regenerative agriculture, soil health is built through intentional management that increases organic matter and supports the biological, chemical, and physical functions of soil. This session explores a soil-first farming mindset and walks through the opportunities created by applying the six soil health principles, with practical examples of how these principles can expand management options on working farms.

Regenerating Soil to Regenerate Water Quality (2:45 PM) Water quality is shaped long before runoff reaches a ditch, stream, or well—it’s determined by how water moves through soil. Regenerating soil increases organic matter, particularly carbon, which plays a critical role in water infiltration, storage, and filtration. Carbon-rich soils bind nutrients and contaminants, reducing nutrient loss, protecting groundwater, and improving surface water quality.

Much like carbon filters used in industrial air and water purification systems, healthy soils act as living filters. By applying regenerative soil management principles, farmers can improve water holding capacity, reduce runoff and leaching, and keep nutrients where crops and forages can use them. This session explores how regenerating soil biology and organic matter directly translates into cleaner water, more resilient fields, and improved downstream outcomes.