Have you ever thought about using a no-till drill? Do you know how this practice can benefit the soil and the land for the future? A no-till drill is a planter that is run over the land placing the seeds in the ground without disturbing the land in the process. When one decides to start this transition they should start small and work into this new practice. Learning from mistakes and becoming educated about this practice is the best way to get started.

When using the no-till drill you are helping to create healthy soil by reducing water run-off and soil loss which means there will be more water for the crops in the ground. Habitats will be saved for those organisms in the soil that create a positive impact on the soil. A better soil structure is another valuable outcome of using the no-till drill. There may be some added cost when buying herbicide to kill off vegetation before planting but you will be saving money when it comes to labor and the cost of fuel. The positive results of this practice are normally realized within the first year.

Southside Soil and Water Conservation District (SSWCD) offers three no-till drills for rent: 7ft. Haybuster, 10ft. Haybuster, 10ft. John Deere

In order to rent one of the three no-till drills:

• All fields to be seeded may be inspected by a district representative and only approved fields will be seeded.

• SSWCD is not responsible for crop stand failures.

• No fertilizer should be put into the drill.

• The lessee is responsible for transporting the drill and returning it to the office or designated area.

• Full payment is due upon completion of work.

If you are located in Charlotte or Lunenburg County and interested in renting a no-till drill to begin or continue this practice, you can contact the SSWCD office located in Suite F at 250 LeGrande Ave., Charlotte Court House, or by phone (434) 542-5405, Monday-Friday 8 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. SSWCD serves Charlotte and Lunenburg County.