If you’re a farmer, you understand the value of sustainability, since your farm’s longevity is tied to your own livelihood. Using the right feed, fertilizers, and farming practices are essential for ensuring your land continues supplying crops for generations to come. Below are some ways to make your farming activities more sustainable.

How to Enhance the Sustainability of Your Farm

1. Protect Your Soil

Owning a farm means waging a constant battle against erosion, which can wash away your topsoil and the nutrients your plants need to grow. Building bulwarks against erosion, adding organic matter, and planting grass will keep your soil healthy for seasons to come. You should also research the fertilizer you intend to use before adding it to the soil to ensure it’s environmentally-friendly, and never use more than necessary.

2. Protect Your Water Supply

Pesticides and fertilizers can pollute groundwater and may ultimately damage your crops. Because you’re sharing this priceless resource with the broader community, work with state and federal regulators to keep your water as clean as possible. In some cases, this may mean getting involved in local politics to prevent other operations from contaminating your water supply.

3. Protect Your Farm’s Ecosystem

Your crops rely on you for water, fertilizer, and pest control, but microbes, earthworms, and bees all play a vital part in the life cycle. Activities that harm the smallest creatures on your farm can have a huge impact on your profits and your land’s ability to sustain your family in the years to come. Protecting these populations might mean eradicating invasive species or avoiding chemicals shown to be dangerous to microbes and pollinators.

Since they first opened their doors in 1920, Bolivar Farmers Exchange has been the go-to source for fertilizers, animal feed, and other necessary farming supplies in Polk County, MO. They pride themselves on being an integral part of their local community and will always take the time to understand and address your needs. If you have any questions, call (417) 326-2664, or drop by the store in Bolivar to speak with a friendly member of their team today.