Wisconsin Ag Connection - NRCS Sees Increased Interest in Cover Crops in Wisconsin

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NRCS Sees Increased Interest in Cover Crops in Wisconsin
Wisconsin Ag Connection - 08/14/2014

When the USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service held a special sign-up this spring to encourage landowners to plant cover crops, they never expected the great response that came in from Wisconsin farmers. Over 500 people applied, which added up to about $4 million when all the eligible applications were processed.

"We had an absolutely overwhelming response to the special pilot cover crop signup," said State Conservationist Jimmy Bramblett. "Farmers are rapidly moving to try cover crops to start re-building the health of the soil. We are excited to see so many farmers interested in pursuing the health and sustainability of our farm land."

NRCS had initially set aside $750,000 for the spring signup. With the huge number of applications that were received, they allocated an additional $778,000. That still leaves over 130 eligible applications unfunded.

Cover crops are highly effective in building healthy soil, increasing organic matter, reducing soil erosion, and suppressing weeds. In Wisconsin, cover crops may include rye, oats, millet, wheat, red clover, turnips, canola, radishes, or other species, either alone or in combination.

Bramblett says the NRCS will hold another cover crop sign-up next spring.

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