By Blake Jackson
The New York Soil Health Mini-Grant Program has announced the recipients of its 2025 awards, supporting projects that address critical soil health needs across the state.
This year’s initiatives focus on practical solutions such as mulching trials to reduce erosion, non-chemical weed management strategies, vineyard cover crop monitoring, and educational tools for gardeners and farmers. Progress updates from these efforts will be released throughout the year.
2025 Funded Projects
On-Farm Soil Health Demonstrations in Northern New York
This project will organize research trials and a field day across Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence Counties. Farmers will explore cover cropping and soil health practices through hands-on learning.
Cover Cropping Benefits in Wayne County
Aimed at row crop farmers, orchardists, and youth, this project will highlight how cover crops improve soil infiltration and reduce erosion, while promoting broader adoption.
Mulch Matters at Salt City Harvest Farm
A test plot in Madison County will compare four mulching materials on sandy soils to evaluate effects on water retention, erosion, nutrient loss, and crop health. Stakeholders will be invited to observe progress and discuss practical applications.
Cover Crops in a Concord Grape Vineyard
In Yates County, researchers will monitor the use of under-vine Microclover and other cover crops in Concord grapes, assessing impacts on vine growth and soil nutrients.
Non-Chemical Knapweed Control in Pastures
This study will trial methods such as mowing, organic amendments, and managed grazing to suppress knapweed populations. Soil health, compaction, and nutrient data will be compared between high- and low-infestation sites, with results shared at producer meetings.
Cover Cropping Guide for Community Gardens
An illustrated guide will be created to help community gardeners in Rochester and beyond learn effective strategies for planting and managing small-scale cover crops.
Biochar in Hügelkultur Beds
Located in Tioga County, this project will demonstrate how biochar and hügelkultur beds can strengthen soil health, conserve moisture, and create resilient growing spaces while serving as an educational model.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-sasiistock
Categories: New York, Education, General