Berrien County Conservation District Hosts Successful 2026 Regenerative Agriculture Field Day
The Berrien County Conservation District (BCCD) was proud to host its 2026 Regenerative Agriculture Field Day on June 18 at Flatwater Farms in Buchanan. The event brought together farmers, landowners, conservation professionals, agricultural industry experts, students, and community members for a full day dedicated to learning about regenerative agriculture and building connections within Michigan's agricultural community.
Despite a brief rain shower and steady winds throughout much of the day, attendees embraced the weather and remained engaged from start to finish. As the clouds cleared and the sunshine emerged, participants enjoyed meaningful conversations, hands-on learning opportunities, and valuable networking with fellow producers and conservation partners.
The day began with registration, coffee, and donuts before guests gathered for a welcome and overview of the day's activities. Attendees then participated in walking tours led by Danny of Flatwater Farms, where they had the opportunity to see regenerative agriculture practices in action and learn firsthand how these methods are being implemented on a working farm.
Following lunch and time to visit with vendors, attendees heard from an outstanding lineup of speakers who shared their expertise and perspectives on soil health, conservation, and the future of agriculture. Presenters included:
Dr. Tim Boring, Director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD)
Rick Clark, nationally recognized regenerative farmer and keynote speaker
Molly Muchow, Verdant Hollow
Mike Stickle, Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
Mike Reinke, Michigan State University
Throughout the afternoon, speakers highlighted practical strategies for improving soil health, increasing farm resilience, reducing input costs, and taking advantage of conservation and regenerative agriculture programs available to producers across Michigan.
The Berrien County Conservation District extends its sincere gratitude to Flatwater Farms for providing the beautiful venue and educational farm tours that served as the foundation for the day's learning experiences.
We would also like to thank our speakers, vendors, sponsors, volunteers, and staff whose contributions made the event possible. Their willingness to share knowledge, resources, and experiences helped create an educational and welcoming environment for all who attended.
Most importantly, thank you to everyone who joined us. Your participation, questions, and enthusiasm are what make events like this successful.
"We are grateful to everyone who attended and helped make this event such a success," said the Berrien County Conservation District. "We hope participants left with new ideas, valuable connections, and practical tools they can apply on their farms and properties. Together, we can continue advancing regenerative agriculture and strengthening the future of farming in our region."
We look forward to continuing these conversations and providing additional opportunities for education, conservation, and collaboration throughout the year.
Event Highlights
Morning Walking Tours presented by Flatwater Farms
Dr. Tim Boring, Director of MDARD
Keynote Speaker Rick Clark
Molly Muchow, Verdant Hollow
NRCS Regenerative Agriculture Program Updates
Mike Reinke, Michigan State University
Vendor Exhibits and Networking Opportunities
This project is made possible through grants from Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development; Outreach and Education, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, with support from funding partners: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Services, and General Mills.
For information about upcoming workshops, conservation programs, and events, visit BCCD's website at www.berriencd.org or contact our office at 269-471-9111.
