Unravel regenerative principles in this upcoming webinar series

Christine Charles<charl122@msu.edu>, Michigan State University Extension -

This webinar series offers practical insights and science-based strategies to navigate different aspects of regenerative principles.

From left to right: a butterfly pollinating a swamp milkweed plant, between the rows of a no-till soybean field, a cover crop mix growing under grape vines, and a beef cow grazing in pasture.
From left to right: a butterfly pollinating a swamp milkweed plant, between the rows of a no-till soybean field, a cover crop mix growing under grape vines, and a beef cow grazing in pasture. All photos from MSU Extension.

The growing demand for resilient food and farming systems is driving increased interest in regenerative agriculture to boost productivity, profitability and environmental health. While regenerative practices aim to improve soil, water, nutrient cycling and biodiversity—and strengthen farmer and community well‑being—they also come with challenges.

Join Michigan State University Extension for the 2026 Regenerative Agriculture Winter Webinar Series this February as we explore the nuances of these core principles of regenerative agriculture, how farmers have been implementing them across Michigan, and what lessons researchers have learned to overcome the challenges.

Feb. 10, 2026 – Grazing in Cropping Systems: Learn how integrating livestock into cropping systems can improve soil health and reduce feed costs. Experts will discuss grazing strategies, nutritional considerations and practical logistics.

  • Denny Person (Person Farms), Kable Thurlow (MSU Extension), Frank Wardynski (MSU Extension)

Feb. 12, 2026 – Residue Risks and Rewards: Crop residue can be both a friend and a foe. This session examines how residue affects spring soil conditions, seed germination and potential risks like delayed planting or pest pressure.

  • Marc Hasenick (Hasenick Farms), Brook Wilke (MSU Kellogg Biological Station)

Feb. 17, 2026 – Cover Crops in Perennials: Explore the practice of integrating cover crops into perennial systems like orchards and vineyards. Understand how this approach can enhance soil health, suppress weeds, and improve biodiversity.

  • Kyle Rasch (Third Leaf Farms), Michela Centinari (Penn State University)

Feb. 19, 2026 – Lake Associations and Farmer Partnerships: Discover how collaborative efforts between lake associations and farmers are improving water quality and building community trust. Case studies will highlight successful partnerships and conservation outcomes.

  • Erick Elgin (MSU Extension)

Feb. 24, 2026 – Strategic Tillage & The Gray of “No-Till”: Not all tillage is created equal. This session explores the nuances of reduced tillage systems, when strategic tillage may be beneficial, and how to balance soil disturbance with regenerative goals.

  • Jodie DeJong-Hughes (Minnesota State Extension)

Feb. 26, 2026 – Innovative Crop Option: Growing Native Plant Seeds: Diversify your farm income and support ecosystem services by growing native plant seed. Learn about market opportunities, agronomic practices and ecological benefits of this system!

  • Jared Foster (Native Connections Farm), Meghan Milbrath (MSU Extension)

Each session will be held virtually via Zoom from 6 to 7 p.m. Registrants will receive a confirmation email with login details and session reminders.

How to register

Registration is open to all and free of charge. Participants can attend one or all sessions.

Register for the 2026 Regenerative Agriculture Winter Webinar Series

This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit https://extension.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit https://extension.msu.edu/newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit https://extension.msu.edu/experts, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).

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