Project Background
Using a combination of crop yield, soil, and weather data, AFT constructed and trained machine-learning models to estimate, at the county level in selected states, how crop yields may change over a 10-year period following soil health practice adoption under both normal weather conditions and drought.
This research is paired with regionally relevant cost data, including machinery and input costs, to form the foundation of the web-based P-SHEC tool and to estimate the long-term economic impacts of practice adoption.
The tool links changes in soil organic matter to long-term yield performance and income outcomes. Results are discounted to present value and displayed through interactive graphics.
P-SHEC is often used to explore the economic impacts of practices aligned with core soil health principles, such as minimizing disturbance, maintaining living roots, maximizing soil cover, and enhancing biodiversity. The tool supports Step 6 of the NRCS nine-step conservation planning process by helping conservation professionals and producers evaluate the potential economic impacts of alternative soil health practice options.
Research, design, and pilot testing of the tool were conducted in collaboration with the USDA NRCS Soil Health Division to ensure technical rigor and usability for conservation professionals and producers.
Visit AFT’s P-SHEC project page to learn more and see crop maps for where the tool works.
Resources
Contact Information
If you have technical questions or need help troubleshooting, please contact Ben Wiercinski, Senior Economist at bwiercinski@farmland.org.
If you are interested in collaborating, disseminating the tool to farmers and ag advisors, or are interested in supporting the next phase of development of the P-SHEC tool, please contact Dr. Michelle Perez, Senior Liaison Between Research and On-the-Ground Practice (formerly Water Initiative Director) at mperez@farmland.org.
