CARRINGTON, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – The Foster County Soil Conservation District remains concerned with the potential for soil erosion over the winter months.

Soil erosion occurs when topsoil is lost to wind, rain, and other forces, causing negative environmental, society, and economic impacts.

Dionn Schaaf, Foster County SCD District Manager, says they’re reminding those who have yet to work their “ground” this fall yet to reconsider.

She added that smaller particles can even travel hundreds or thousands of miles. Erosion also reduces soil nutrients and affects productivity.

She says there are other steps landowners can take to help alleviate soil erosion including better soil aggregates.

Schaff says North Dakota has been affected by soil erosion for multiple years.

Landowners can reduce tillage depth and intensity or eliminate tillage entirely. Schaff says you can leave more standing residue when possible, raise cutting height on small grains, or leaving bands of unchopped stalks. You can also plant cover crops and consider planting shelter belts to protect soils and crops.

For questions or more information, you can contact the Foster County Soil Conservation District at 701 652-2551 ext. 3 or visit fosterscd.com

Listen to a full interview with Dionn Schaff below: