Storytelling Meets Soil: How Mini-Docs Are Fueling Interest in Regenerative Agriculture

A new mini-documentary is putting North Dakota farmers and their efforts to restore soil health in the national spotlight. In this episode of The Backstory, host Sabrina Halvorson talks with reporter Michael Standaert about his article exploring how short films and sustainable farming trends are intersecting.

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In this episode, we discuss the growing interest in regenerative agriculture and how mini-documentaries are bringing attention to the topic. Michael explains how farmers are working to restore soil health, reduce chemical use, and adapt to changing consumer demands.

“There’s increased awareness of things like gut health and how the gut microbiome is so important for overall health… It’s similar to a soil microbiome. If the soil microbiome is damaged, you might not get the right nutrients in the crops.” — Michael Standaert, NDNC

The discussion highlights a recent mini-documentary by Kiss the Ground that showcases North Dakota farmers experimenting with regenerative practices. Sabrina and Michael explore how younger generations are leading this shift and how consumer awareness around soil health is reshaping agriculture.

Episode highlights:

• Regenerative agriculture explained: Michael breaks down how practices like no-till farming and cover crops aim to restore soil health, reduce chemical use, and improve long-term sustainability.
• North Dakota farmers in focus: A new mini-documentary by Kiss the Ground showcases how lifelong friends in North Dakota are experimenting with regenerative methods to cut costs and rebuild their soil.
• Consumer-driven change: Growing awareness of soil health and its connection to human health is pushing demand for food grown with fewer chemicals—and younger generations of farmers are leading the transition.