Working with nature

Farmers share their experiences going from conventional to conservation methods

Janelle Atyeo
Jan 23, 2025
Jan 23, 2025

Dean Sponheim strip tillage field — Dean Sponheim checks out a field on his north central Iowa farm where he uses strip tillage practices. He’s been using the practice since 1999.
Photo by Gene Lucht

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When it comes to farming practices, Kurt Stiefvater lets Mother Nature be the guide.

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Kurt Stiefvater talks about his farm near Salem, S.D., during the Dakota Farm Show.
Tri-State Neighbor photo by Janelle Atyeo

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Janelle Atyeo is a small town South Dakota girl enjoying her work as regional editor of the Midwest Messenger and Tri-State Neighbor while raising kids and no-till vegetables in central Sioux Falls. Reach her at janelle.atyeo@lee.net.