Farm Policy News Summary
April 4 @ 11:00 am - 12:00 pm CDT
Managing Risks with Cover Crops: A Case Study of the Most Profitable Illinois Farms Using Cover Crops
April 4 @ 11:00 am - 12:00 pm CDT
Cover crops remain the best conservation practice in the organic rich soils of the Midwest where nutrient loss, soil health, and climate change are concerns. Many farmers have also seen agronomic benefits related to weed control, water infiltration, and protection during crop-loss weather events. Still, there are challenges for farm-level profitability and risks. Using Precision Conservation Management (PCM) data and farmer interviews, we present the current best practices to manage risks and protect profitability for Midwest farmers.