Neal and Nellie Springer

Neal and Nellie Springer Photo by Annick Shen

Neal and Nellie Springer grow corn and soybeans on a close to 300 acre farm in Mt. Vernon, Ohio. Well-known for pioneering the no-till method, they have educated farmers throughout the United States and Africa about the benefits of no-till farming. No-till farming, improves moisture retention, weed control, and soil productivity. The Springers have diversified their life and increased the potential of their farm through paying attention to the entire farm ecosystem . Describing the no-till farming program as a log chain, you are only as strong as the weakest link, the Springers maintain the forest, soil, water ways, and farm houses with equal care as their crops. I learned a lot from the Springers about the economics of farming. "I sold corn 10 years ago today at the same price I am selling it for now. That can't go on. We are producing more, but also expenses are higher. We pay more for our lime, fertilizer, herbicides, gasoline, and equipment." Neal Springer