Todd County Extension Highlights Importance of Agricultural Lime

Traci Johnson shares how lime can benefit soil and crop yields for local farmers.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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Todd County Extension Agent Traci Johnson recently spoke with WEKT about the importance of agricultural lime for local farmers. Lime is crushed limestone that can help raise soil pH to optimal levels, allowing crops to better utilize fertilizers and nutrients already in the soil. Johnson encourages farmers to have their soil tested, especially in the fall before planting season, to determine their baseline pH and lime needs.

Why it matters

Maintaining proper soil pH through the application of agricultural lime is crucial for maximizing crop yields and return on investment for local farmers. Acidic soil can prevent crops from effectively absorbing key nutrients, so lime acts as a catalyst to improve overall soil health and fertility.

The details

Johnson explains that agricultural lime is rarely 100% in relative neutralizing value, a measure of its ability to neutralize acidic soil. She notes that soil pH can change over time, so regular soil testing is important to ensure farmers are applying the right amount of lime. The Todd County Extension office offers soil testing services to help local growers determine their precise lime needs.

  • Todd County Extension Agent Traci Johnson recently shared this information with WEKT.
  • Johnson recommends that farmers have their soil tested, preferably in the fall before crop season begins.

The players

Traci Johnson

The Todd County Extension Agent who spoke with WEKT about the importance of agricultural lime for local farmers.

Todd County Extension Office

Provides soil testing services to help local farmers determine their lime needs and maintain optimal soil pH.

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What they’re saying

“Agricultural lime is crushed limestone that can benefit soil. Johnson says it's often needed to raise soil to the correct pH for crops.”

— Traci Johnson, Todd County Extension Agent (WEKT)

“She says it's very important for crop investment, and one that farmers shouldn't skip. Johnson says getting soil pH to the right level allows the crops to be able to use fertilizer as well as the nutrients already in the soil.”

— Traci Johnson, Todd County Extension Agent (WEKT)

What’s next

The Todd County Extension Office encourages local farmers to contact them at 270-265-5659 or visit their Elkton office at 240 Pond River Road to learn more about soil testing and agricultural lime recommendations.

The takeaway

Maintaining proper soil pH through the strategic application of agricultural lime is a critical, yet often overlooked, step for local farmers to maximize their crop yields and return on investment. The Todd County Extension Office provides valuable resources and expertise to help growers optimize their soil health and fertility.