Conservation Agriculture
Motivated by our commitment to biodiversity, we collaborate with farmers to create sustainable landscapes on pipeline rights-of-way, helping protect and enhance the natural environment.
Sustainable Farmlands
The image below is a cross-section of the sustainable landscapes concept. The extensive root systems of compatible plants help prevent runoff and soil erosion, which can lead to shallow cover over pipelines, and increase the risk of pipeline damage from farming practices.
Through our Conservation Agriculture program, we collaborate with farmers to transform these areas of shallow cover into sustainable habitats. By stepping away from traditional farming practices and opting for conservation approaches, farmers play a crucial role in preserving the ecosystem. Participating farmers receive compensation, and the program benefits the entire community by increasing biodiversity and helping us protect the pipeline.
Benefits to Farmers
Community Safety
Protects farmers, farmland, and the surrounding environment.
Biodiversity
Promotes a vibrant ecosystem with improved water quality and wildlife habitats.
Farm Incentives
Encourages landowners to convert shallow pipeline acreage into habitat.
The Value of Conservation
Our Conservation Agriculture program offers farmers a unique value proposition: participate in conservation efforts to help protect the pipeline and receive financial incentives. In partnership with Pheasants Forever, we also support the exploration of federal conservation initiatives like the USDA Farm Service Agency Conservation Reserve Program. Our goal at MPL is to help farmers gain conservational value while also protecting the shallow pipeline from damage caused by agricultural practices.
Conservation Agricultural Benefits:
- Vegetative cover, such as native grasses and riparian buffers, helps prevent runoff and erosion
- Eliminates damage caused to shallow pipelines through agricultural practices
- Incentive programs support the preservation of environmentally sensitive acreage, and habitat restoration
Land Stewardship and Safety
Conservation agriculture improves pipeline and farm safety by converting shallow pipeline areas into conservation habitats, protecting them from damage caused by routine farming practices.
"Tilling and ripping can damage shallow pipelines. MPL’s Conservation Ag program is helping to mitigate this risk while enhancing farm safety."
Christina Frohning
Conservation Agriculture Specialist, MPL
Conservation Community Alliances
At MPL, we support community initiatives that promote wildlife conservation, preserve land integrity, and enhance biodiversity. We have established vital alliances that strengthen Conservation Agriculture efforts, collaborating with organizations such as Pheasants Forever, Quail Forever, and other nature-based nonprofits.