Farmers can learn how to improve the health of both their soil and their cattle at the 15th annual Northwest Pennsylvania Grazing Conference. The workshop will be held on Thursday, March 22, at the Zion Church located 2.9 miles south of Interstate 80, Exit 62, near Clarion.

This year’s conference will focus on the use of sound ecological principles of grazing management to improve soil health — “farming in nature’s image.” Sessions will also cover topics such as the importance of good planning and recordkeeping in grazing management as well as equine pasture management.

The keynote speaker is Ray Archuleta, a 23 year veteran soil scientist with the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service. Archuleta will talk about his passion — healthy soil — as the foundation of healthy pastures and healthy livestock.

He is a certified professional soil scientist with the Soil Science Society of America.

Early registration is $30 and includes a hot buffet lunch. Early registration must be postmarked by Friday. Late registration is $50 and must be postmarked by March 7.

Mail the registration and fee payable to Headwaters RC&D Council, Attn: Brittany Dittemore, 109 N. Brady St. 2nd floor, DuBois, PA 15801.

Conference information can be downloaded from the Headwaters RC&D website at www.headwaterspa.org, or by calling 814-503-8653.

Andy Gaver is a conservationist with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service in Butler County.