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Cover crop benefits on claypan Soils. Newell Kitchen USDA-ARS Cropping Systems and Water Quality Research Unit Columbia, MO. Translating Missouri USDA-ARS Research and Technology into Practice A training session provided by USDA-ARS-CSWQRU, 10-11 October 2012, Columbia, MO.
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Cover crop benefits on claypan Soils Newell Kitchen USDA-ARS Cropping Systems and Water Quality Research Unit Columbia, MO Translating Missouri USDA-ARS Research and Technology into Practice A training session provided by USDA-ARS-CSWQRU, 10-11 October 2012, Columbia, MO
We Need Cover! Cover: blanket, canopy, cloak, hood, layer, shield, overlay, veil, cap
Lost topsoil from erosion • Lost organic matter • Lost soil structure • Lower fertility What essential is “cover” when you’ve lost 60-90% of the function of that original soil?
How have we incorporated cover crops on the Precision Agriculture System (PAS)?
Quickly shows reduced erosion Mulch tillage, Corn-soybean rotation (MTCS) No-till, Corn-soybean-wheat rotation (NTCSW cover)
Improved Water Infiltration hay (cool & warm) CRP (cool) CRP (warm)
Changes in other Soil Quality Indicators Highlighted items are significantly different between samplings
Typical Positive Impacts from Cover Crops on Soil Physical Properties • Increased soil organic matter • Enhanced infiltration • Enhanced aeration • Improved soil structure/aggregation • Decreased soil strength • Preventive of soil compaction • Reduced evaporation potential