IL HR0630

Declares March 3 through March 9, 2024 as Illinois Soil Health Week in the state.

Identifies six basic principles of soil health: minimize soil disturbance, maximize plant and microbial diversity, maintain living roots, keep soil covered with crops and residue, integrate animals into land management, and incorporate local conditions in decision-making.

Recognizes soil health practices including no-till farming, cover crops, nutrient management plans, and crop rotations as essential for reducing non-point source pollution and meeting nutrient loss reduction goals for the Mississippi River Basin.

Acknowledges soil health's role in carbon sequestration, climate change mitigation, water infiltration, and improved organic matter content that supports soil organisms.

Encourages celebration and activities during Soil Health Week to raise public awareness among farmers, consumers, and agribusiness about the importance of soil, air, and water quality.