Noble Research Institute Brings Land Essentials Workshop to Lincoln University

Workshop leader Will Moseley demonstrates techniques for identifying soil quality to a group of attendees.

Producers gathered at Lincoln University’s George Washington Carver Farm for a recent Land Essentials workshop led by the Noble Research Institute, learning hands-on techniques for improving soil health, adopting regenerative practices and maximizing land productivity.

Three leaders from Noble — Will Moseley, Steven Smith and Doug Jobes — guided participants through classroom lessons and in-field exercises, including an assessment of soil conditions in one of Lincoln’s on-farm pastures.

The partnership originated in November 2023, when Lincoln University Farm Superintendent Chris Boeckmann contacted Noble after hearing one of its staff members speak at an event. This initial connection led to Noble offering courses and workshops at Carver Farm starting in October 2024.

Boeckmann said many workshop attendees are people who have participated in public field day events hosted at the university’s farms or those who have worked directly with faculty and staff.

“Noble comes in with a lot of expertise," Boeckmann said. "They've done research on the grazing and the regenerative agriculture that they're presenting these workshops on. Interested producers sometimes are hesitant to try something new without knowing exactly how to go about it and where to start. This gives them the opportunity to gain that knowledge base and also the ability to follow up with Noble research experts after the workshop.”

Noble Institute’s Steven Smith leads a lecture on regenerative farming techniques.

Moseley, who has worked with Noble since 2008, said one of the most important parts of these events is the connections they create. He said one of the most important parts of these events is the connections they create between producers.

“Having this network of people that can be mentors, peers — to learn from each other — I think is one of the most valuable things that they can get out of these workshops.” Moseley said.

Attendees came with a variety of goals. Joe Wetherell, a local man who farms with his wife, saw an ad for the workshop and thought it might benefit them. The couple grows grasses and other crops and wanted to learn more about land management techniques.

“It's amazing how everything is linked together more than I realized,” Wetherell said after the workshop.

With Noble’s research and Lincoln University’s outreach, the partnership offers producers not only practical knowledge but also a growing network of peers and mentors.

Click here for more information on future classes offered by Noble Institute.