Reduce or eliminate tillage. Tillage improves the aeration of the soil and causes a flush of microbial activity that increases the speed of decomposition of organic matter. The incorporation of oxygen into the soil essentially helps to ignite and burn the organic matter like a fire burns wood.
Reduce soil erosion. Most of the organic matter in a soil is in the topsoil. When soil erodes, organic matter goes with it. Saving soil and organic matter go hand and hand.
Fertilize Properly. Proper fertilization encourages growth of plants, which increases root growth. Increased root growth can help build or maintain soil organic matter, even if much of the top growth is removed.
Cover crops can help build or maintain soil organic matter. The best results are achieved if growing cover crops are combined with a reduction in tillage practices.
Winter may still bring a few surprises, but we are preparing for the arrival of spring and looking to add more members to our team! Find the list of current openings on our website CAREERS page at https://www.countryvisionscoop.com/careers. Complete the on-line application form or if you would like more information, stop in and talk with a location manager.
Members who received patronage in April 2025 from Country Visions Cooperative were mailed a 1099-PATR form in late January 2026. This patronage distribution was for your purchases from our fiscal year, September 2023 thru August 2024. In previous years, members have had questions regarding this form. The following information may assist in addressing the most commonly asked questions.