Twin Rivers Seed Farm, R.D. Minnesota-based Offutt's Seed Farm has successfully received water quality certification, demonstrating its commitment to protecting water quality through sustainable farming practices. Certification was granted following an extensive evaluation by area certification specialist Jim Lahn in conjunction with the state Department of Agriculture.
Keith McGovern, President of RD. Offutt Farms has expressed interest in the company's certification program to demonstrate its commitment to regenerative agriculture. McGovern stressed the importance of preserving natural resources for future generations and recognized the role of soil, water and sunlight in agricultural production.
Jake Jacobson, the farm manager, reported on the farm's conservation efforts and described key water quality conservation practices. These measures include a long rotation strategy where seed potatoes are only planted in the field every four years. The company also operates crop rotations in partnership with neighboring farmers to improve soil health and break the pest cycles associated with different crops.
In addition, the R.D. Offutta is intercropping, where various crops such as rye, oats, mustard greens and radishes are grown during the transition from potato seed production to protect against erosion, improve soil health, conserve water and promote biodiversity. In the past three years, the farm has dramatically reduced its tillage practices by 50 percent, incorporating cover crops into the soil before planting potatoes each spring.
The company also uses irrigation management techniques, relying on moisture sensors and remote monitoring to ensure optimal water use. Precise central rotation systems with low-pressure nozzles are used for irrigation.
The Water Quality Certification recognizes the company's commendable environmental practices and affirms its commitment to responsible land management. Research and Development Offutt Farms operates many partner farms and companies throughout Minnesota and carefully controls the quality and traceability of seed potato production. Through an unwavering commitment to sustainability and learning, R.D. Offutt Farms wants to build on its long tradition of organic potato growing.