Maximizing the Potential Soil Health Benefits of Cover Crops

Kip Balkcom

Research Agronomist

USDA ARS

Cover crops are currently one of the most popular agricultural research topics being examined across the U.S. High residue cover crops combined with conservation tillage can reverse unfavorable soil conditions, such as soil compaction, which ultimately improves productivity of irrigated and rainfed cropping systems.

However, correctly managing cover crops is critical for single species and cover crop mixtures to maximize potential soil health benefits. This presentation will help attendees understand how management factors can affect cover crop performance.

Kip Balkcom will explore how plant and termination dates affect biomass production, tillage and planting equipment modifications facilitate operation in high residue, economic considerations, and how cover crop benefits, such as water conservation, are enhanced with cover crops and/or when combined with conservation tillage.