SPRINGFIELD – During Soil Health Week, State Senator Doris Turner joined agriculture advocates and stakeholders at a rally on Wednesday.

“From the food we eat to our economy, healthy soil benefits our daily lives,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “As chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee, I want to make sure our farmers are taken care of and our agriculture industry is protected.”

Soil Health Week is recognized in Illinois during the week of March 6-10. Soil is an essential natural resource, and Illinois farmers and professionals play a critical role in managing Illinois’ soil and water resources. Practices like zero tillage and using cover crops can improve soil health while reducing erosion, increasing water retention and enhancing biodiversity.

Turner joined Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton, Representative Charlie Meier, Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello, representatives from the Illinois Stewardship Alliance and the Illinois Association of Soil Water Conservation Districts for a rally at the state capitol on Wednesday in celebration of Soil Health Week.