A Soil Health Management Plan (SHMP) is a field-specific strategy designed to improve the long-term function and resilience of agricultural soils. The process begins with a thorough site assessment that considers soil texture, structure, organic matter, compaction, and biological activity. Soil tests are used to evaluate fertility, salinity, and pH, while field observations identify erosion risks, infiltration issues, or restrictive layers that may limit productivity. These measurements establish a baseline of soil conditions and guide the selection of practices that build soil health over time.

The plan outlines practical conservation practices such as reduced tillage, cover cropping, compost or manure applications, crop rotations, and irrigation adjustments to increase organic matter, protect against erosion, and improve nutrient cycling. Each recommendation is tailored to the producer’s operation, balancing immediate crop needs with long-term improvements in soil function. By enhancing water-holding capacity, nutrient efficiency, and biological diversity, a Soil Health Management Plan not only supports higher and more stable yields but also strengthens the farm’s ability to withstand drought, salinity, and other production challenges. Post-implementation evaluations allow producers to track progress and refine practices, ensuring soil health improvements are both measurable and sustainable.