Working to Protect

Supporting Conservation

Oregon Tilth believes conservation-minded agriculture provides environmental and financial benefits that make a case for a different kind of food system. We bring together farmers and researchers, using data to sharpen farm strategies that make sense for people and the planet. Our goal is to link farmers to resources — model conservation production practices that enhance natural resources, protect biological diversity, and provide economic viability are needed.

Technical assistance

Oregon Tilth works in partnership with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), The Xerces Society, Oregon State University, the National Center for Appropriate Technology, and others to develop technical and educational resources. Our collaborations increase farmers’ access to learning opportunities and resources, and support service providers’ knowledge of organic production.

The National Organic Farming Handbook, a free online publication developed in collaboration with over 30 partners, provides guidance on how to implement a variety of conservation initiatives on organic farms.

We offer in-person and remote workshops, intensives, and training on the following topics:

• Basic conservation planning
• Pest and weed management
• Nutrient management
• Soil health
• Crop rotations
• Cover crop strategies
• Pasture management
• Livestock living conditions and outdoor access
• Accessing federal conservation programs