Soil Health Rally

All individuals whose lives are sustained by the soil are invited to participate in Ohio’s inaugural Soil Health Week celebration in Athens, Ohio. Rural Action and its partners will host the Soil Health Rally on Thursday, Nov. 14, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Athens County Municipal Courthouse. The event will feature inspiring speakers from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. 

Eaters, farmers and advocates are encouraged to attend this informative event to learn about soil health in Ohio and hear from local and state leaders. The rally will highlight the critical role of soil health in food production, watershed health and climate mitigation. Before and after the speaker presentations, attendees can visit tables around the Courthouse steps to engage in demonstrations and gain deeper insights into soil health initiatives. 

Participating organizations include Rural Action, SORT, Ohio Ecological Food & Farm Association (OEFFA), OSU Extension, Community Food Initiatives, Roll Run Farm, Sierra Student Coalition, and Ohio Environmental Council.

Featured speakers will include Representative Juanita Brent, OEFFA Grassroots Policy Organizer Lauren Hirtle, County Commissioner and farmer Chris Chmiel, local producer Lindsay Klaunig of Trouvaille Farm, and Jay Brandt of Brandt Family Farm, among others. Attendees will learn about the past, present and future of soil health conservation in Ohio and discover actionable steps they can take in their own backyards. No registration is required. 

Additionally, a free sign making party will be held at the Athens Ohio MakerSpace on November 7th at 5-7pm, for those interested in creating signs and posters ahead of the rally. 

This event is part of a statewide initiative with activities planned throughout  the  week. For a complete schedule of Ohio Soil Health Week events, visit the official website. 

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Athens Ohio MakerSpace, 751 W Union St, Athens, United States