A new organization has cropped up, called PHISH (People who Help Improve Soil Health). PHISH promotes soil health in its communities and neighboring counties.
These communities come from PHISH’s six affiliated counties of Vigo, Sullivan, Clay, Greene, Putnam, and Morgan. Leading the efforts is Paul Pendergast based out of the Vigo County Soil and Water Conservation District office.
PHISH was formed in 2020 and funded through a grant. PHISH does most of its work through site visits and handing out informational flyers and brochures at events. By the beginning of 2022, Phish has already done more than 40 site visits. These visits are initiated by property owners and are typically performed for small and urban farmers. However, PHISH is still able and willing to work with non-farming citizens who have small gardens in their backyard or other soil concerns. Site visits depend on the owner's needs but usually include soil sampling. PHISH offers two free samples per site per person and can typically produce a nutrient management plan for an area within one to two weeks, depending on the lab.