Tillage operations that pulverize soil aggregates are the most damaging. Secondary tillage is often harder on the soil than primary tillage. Tillage systems that maximize surface residues are preferred. Use tillage prescriptively to solve specific soil problems. Minimize use of pesticides.
Some pesticides are slightly toxic to non- target soil organisms.
Dyfonate, Counter, and Thimet can affect earthworms. Triazines also have a negative affect on the worms. Soil quality at Cedar Meadow Farm has improved over the last several years. Soil erosion has been cut from 14 tons per acre per year to almost nothing. With the ground covered by plant residues and not loosened by vigorous tillage, the soil stays rather than getting washed away during heavy rainfall.