In the summer of 2025, the Regenerative Organic Oats (ROO) program was in full swing across the fields of participating Prairie farmers, from south-central Manitoba to northwestern Alberta. Our program coordinators visited ROO farms and farmers, working together to conduct various field monitoring techniques and collect soil samples for laboratory analysis. This hands-on experience offered invaluable insights into the soils these farmers are regenerating, highlighting their efforts to optimize crop yields, store more water in the soil, and increase soil biology.
In late July, ROO Program Coordinator Dru headed to Hays, AB to visit Bernie at Wickenheiser Organic Farms.
With limited time (like so many farmers) and lots to do, Bernie and Dru set out right away to get their soil sampling done in the Wickenheiser fields. One important stop was Bernie’s “best field”.
What do we mean when we talk about a “best field” in soil testing? Typically, the best field is the one that producers find is the most productive year after year. This is often determined based on their observations of plant health as well as the yield. This makes it a great spot to test and compare to others!
There are billions of processes occurring beneath our feet, and the biodiversity of the soil microbiome is imperative to healthy plants. During the farm visit, this was fully on display with impressive worm tunnels. Earthworms are welcome inhabitants within the soil food web because of their ability to drill holes in the soil, thereby making pathways for water and air. This is important for water infiltration, as well as aerating the soil for microbial processes and root navigation.
During the visit, conversation with Bernie also inspired Dru to think about the supports and systems outside the farm that are necessary to improve market access for regenerative organic farmers. Things like policy support, consumer education, and recognition of the value regenerative organic farmers provide all sprung to mind. Bringing insights like these back from farm visits to COG’s Policy and Advocacy team is yet another way our ROO team and ROO participants are strengthening the regenerative organic movement!
To learn more about the ROO program, visit our Regenerative Organic Oats (ROO) page on our website.