In this engaging session, scientists and researchers convene to explore applied research methods aimed at tackling the soil health requirements specific to desert agriculture. The discussion is skillfully moderated by Dr. Ethan Orr, offering a comprehensive exploration of practical solutions tailored to the unique challenges of desert farming. Tune in to gain valuable insights from this expert-led conversation.

0:00 - Economic Incentives and Programs to Improve Soil Health and Irrigation - Dr. Ethan Orr

0:15:30 - Effective Measurements of Soil Health - Dr. Jenny Bower

In this keynote presentation, we are privileged to host Dr. Nancy Johnson from Northern Arizona University. Join us to hear her expert insights on the role of mycorrhizae in agriculture, providing valuable perspectives on this vital aspect of farming and soil health.

In this session, we had the honor of hosting esteemed Arizona state leaders including Paul Brierley from the Arizona Department of Agriculture, Dr. Shane Burgess from the University of Arizona, Ralph Ware from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation, Charlene Fernandez from the USDA Rural Development, and Senator Brian Fernandez from the AZ State Senate. Together, they shared their insights on the crucial topic of soil health. Tune in to gain valuable perspectives from these leaders.

We held an industry stakeholders panel at this event moderated by Dr. Stephanie Slinski, YCEDA Interim Executive Director. Speakers included Kim Horton from Taylor Farms, Matt McGuire from JV Smith Companies, and Vicki Scott with Scott Resources. Tune in to gain valuable insights from these experts as they discuss soil health research and its significance in the industry.

In this recording, you'll witness the welcoming remarks delivered by Stephanie Slinski, the Interim Director of YCEDA, and Paul Brierley, CEO & EDD of the Arizona Department of Agriculture. Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to hear from our keynote speaker, Joey Blankinship, who serves as an Associate Professor at the University of Arizona. Get ready for an informative and engaging session ahead!

0:00 Welcoming Remarks - Dr. Stephanie Slinski

04:28 Opening Remarks - Paul Brierley

The University of Arizona’s Yuma Center of Excellence for Desert Agriculture (YCEDA) and Cooperative Extension hosted a workshop for Yuma growers to assess the soil health needs of the desert Ag industry. This workshop is part of YCEDA’s Desert Ag Soil Health Initiative (DASHI). Presentations focused on soil health, but most importantly, the workshop included discussions among participants with the objective to: Understand growers’ priority questions about soil health. Identify what growers view as “success” when managing on-farm soil health.

This video is a journey through time highlighting YCEDA’s growth, collaborations on applied research, and innovative solutions addressing the real problems of desert agriculture!