The Indiana State Department of Agriculture has launched the Mississippi River Basin Soil Sampling Program, offering free soil testing to farmers across the state. The initiative, developed with the Gulf Hypoxia Program, aims to improve nutrient management practices, boost farm profitability, and reduce nutrient loss. The program is open to row crop fields, pastures, hay, and specialty crops within Indiana’s portion of the basin, with priority given to smaller farms and fields that have never or rarely been sampled. Sign-ups are available now through October 17, 2025, or until funds run out. Farmers can register online at the ISDA website or email soilsampling@isda.in.gov for more information.
