A large percentage of crops grown in Pennsylvania are produced on highly erodible land. In spite of concentrated efforts from Cooperative Extension, Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), and the Soil Conservation Districts, an unacceptable amount of soil continues to erode from Pennsylvania farms. Too much silt, fertilizer, and pesticide ends up in our waterways, and too many streets and secondary roads become covered with mud from trucks exiting construction sites. These symptoms suggest further education is needed to reduce the incidents causing reduction in the overall quality of our environment.

To more effectively foster positive changes in erosion and sediment control, a strong education program complete with active partnering with such agencies and groups as Natural Resource Conservation Service, Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, and the Conservation Districts is necessary.

Farming practices can influence erosion and sedimentation rates. Education must be delivered concerning tillage practices, residue management, installation of appropriate structures, crop rotations, cover crops, and other practices that can help bring about a reduction in the amount of soil erosion and sedimentation. Some of these same practices can very positively improve the soil physical properties, which not only reduces erosion but can definitely enhance the long-term sustainability of Pennsylvania farmland.

Recognition by developers and contractors of the importance of erosion control to the local community and off-site damage often caused by soil erosion, excess water runoff, and subsequent stream sedimentation must be increased. A proactive coordinated effort by Extension, DEP, and the Conservation Districts would help bring about that recognition.

By enlisting the aid of master gardeners, and public school science and/or vo-ag teachers, Cooperative Extension could teach basic soil science to schoolchildren and adults throughout the community. This would enhance public awareness of the importance of the soil, the fragility of the community in which we live, and the importance of controlling soil erosion and sedimentation of our streams. It would be a positive influence toward better lawns, more productive gardens, more profitable farms, and a better environment in which to live.

SUB POW: 4.C.1. Erosion and Sedimentation Management

Objective: 4.C.1.1. Clientele will reduce soil and water loss by developing and implementing tillage practices, establishing crop rotations and cover crops, and building structures and devices.

Objective: 4.C.2.1. Clientele will adopt practices to enhance organic matter and reduce soil compaction.

SUB POW: 4.C.3. Basic Soil Science

Objective: 4.C.3.1. Teach basic soil science to the general public, youth, and commercial audiences.