Russell operates a 289 acre farm with a diverse crop rotation consisting of barley, alfalfa hay, corn and soybeans.  This farm also raises beef (20 cow and calf pairs) and sheep (20 ewe and lamb pairs) utilizing a prescribed grazing program on pasture acres that includes four paddocks.  Each paddock is grazed for one week followed by a three week rest period to allow for vegetative regrowth.  Vegetative buffers are in place along waterways.  Open tile intakes are to be closed as part of this water quality certification to further reduce sediment and nutrient transport potential.  The nutrient management program follows University of Minnesota rate suggestions when applying livestock manure and supplemental fertilizer.  Lastly, Russell is utilizing a reduced tillage program to maintain crop residue cover and works with local agricultural retailers for pest management control on his cropland acres.

In addition to farming, Russ is an Agronomy instructor at Ridgewater College in Willmar.  He plans to incorporate the concepts of MAWQCP into his courses at Ridgewater and has made inquiry to have Grant Pearson, West Central MAWQCP Certification Specialist, make presentations to Peterson’s students.

Grant Pearson said Peterson understands that MAWQCP is recognizes crop production BMPs and the integration of water quality and soil health practices.  “Russell is an ambassador for the efforts of SWCDs and MAWQCP with the next generation of farmers.”