Ray Archuleta
Retired NRCS Soil Scientist and Founder of Understanding Ag and the Soil Health Academy

Harness the Power of Your Plants to Position  Your Operation for Long-Term Success

Ray Archuleta, a renowned leader in soil health and a 2022 No-Till Innovator, routinely challenges the status quo and its impact on both farmers’ soils and their pocketbooks. The retired NRCS soil scientist and founder of Understanding Ag and the Soil Health Academy says whether a farm operation relies on new sunlight (captured by living plants) or ancient sunlight (from man-made fertilizers, pesticides and diesel) dramatically impacts the resiliency of the farm. Archuleta explains how purposeful management allows farmers to cycle nutrients in the soil and reduce costly inputs for long-term success. Always thought- and debate-provoking, Archuleta makes his first return to the conference stage since 2018 to build on his “Best Speaker” billing from attendees. Archuleta headlined the 2020 documentary Kiss the Ground. Learn why cover crops are “your first step to freedom” in reducing your inputs and positioning your operation for long-term success.