Resources for Farmers & Partners
Good farming starts with good information. This resource hub connects you to tools, research, and farmer-driven knowledge to help you make informed decisions, improve efficiency, and get the most out of your operation.
Browse our curated list of resources, including best management practices, research, and learning tools from leading agricultural organizations and farmer networks.
🌱 Best Management Practices & Tools
📚 Research & Data
Featured Resource: Social Networks for Soil Health
Farmers learn best from farmers—and this video proves it. Dive into how everyday farmers are leading change through community, conversation, and shared experience. Paige Allen from the Ontario Soil Network breaks down the behavioral science behind why some farmers adopt soil health practices—and others hesitate. Real stories, practical insights, and a fresh take on what really moves the needle.
Research & Reports
A collection of studies, reports, and data to support informed decision-making in agriculture.
Evaluating the Ontario Soil Network: 2020-2021 Research Results
Prepared by Dr. Erin Nelson & Jenna Livingston
Funded by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) through the Ontario Agri-Food Innovation Alliance
This report examines the role of farmer-led networks in advancing soil health best management practices (BMPs) across Ontario. The research, conducted in collaboration with the University of Guelph, utilized surveys and interviews with OSN affiliates to assess how peer learning influences BMP adoption.
Key Findings:
✅ Farmer Networks Drive Change – Over 75% of OSN members reported that participation in the network motivated them to adopt BMPs, introduced them to new innovations, and helped improve existing soil health practices.
✅ Stronger Community Connections – OSN membership significantly expanded farmer networks, fostering relationships with mentors, advisors, and fellow farmers.
✅ Top BMPs Adopted – More than 90% of members practice cover cropping and diverse crop rotations, with strong adoption of no-till and winter cover strategies.
✅ Barriers to BMP Adoption – Costs, time constraints, and lack of materials were the most common challenges cited.
The findings highlight the critical role of peer support in overcoming challenges and encouraging sustainable soil management across Ontario.