NDSU Extension Soil Health Express Hits the Road

A new mobile educational trailer, the NDSU Extension Soil Health Express, is rolling across North Dakota to bring hands-on soil health demonstrations directly to farmers, ranchers, agricultural professionals and students.

Funded by North Dakota Soybean Council, North Dakota Corn Utilization Council, North Dakota Wheat Commission, North Central SARE, Northern Canola Growers Association, NDSU School of Natural Resource Sciences and NDSU Extension, the Soil Health Express will serve as a powerhouse outreach tool designed to engage and educate on best soil management practices.

“This trailer brings science to life,” said Carlos Pires, NDSU Extension soil health specialist. “It’s a state-of-the-art way to connect with producers and showcase the real-world benefits of sustainable soil practices.”

In addition to Pires, Naeem Kalwar, Extension soil health specialist at the Langdon Research Extension Center, is part of the soil health team that will coordinate the trailer’s use.

The Soil Health Express features a rainfall simulator that allows viewers to see firsthand how different soil management practices impact water infiltration, water holding capacity, surface runoff and erosion. In addition, a wind erosion simulator showcases how practices can reduce soil loss during high wind events, a growing concern in the region.

Another key highlight of the Soil Health Express is its cover crop root demonstrations, which help participants visualize how various cover crops affect soil structure and function. These demonstrations emphasize that cover crops are service plants, critical for improving soil health when selected and managed with a clear purpose.

Equipped for both indoor and outdoor demonstrations, the trailer was built with flexibility
in mind, ensuring it can be used year-round at field days, fairs, schools and community events.

“Our goal is to empower North Dakota’s agricultural community with practical, research-backed knowledge for healthier soils and more resilient farming systems,” shares Kalwar.

For more information or to request the Soil Health Express at your event, contact the NDSU Extension soil health team:

Carlos Pires, NDSU Extension Soil Health Specialist,
Naeem Kalwar, Extension Soil Health Specialist, Langdon REC