Sep 9

Conservation Newsletter

Updated: Sep 23

Issue 2 | September 2024

Interested in Planting a Cover Crop this Fall?

Listed below is our Overwintering Cover Crop Mix, which includes:

Winter Rye – 56 lbs/acre
Kale – 2 lbs/acre

Planting rates can be adjusted based on seeding method.

Quick facts:

Rye will resume growth in the spring and must be terminated via chemical or mechanical means.
Kale terminates at 14 degrees, which makes it one of the longest living brassicas into colder weather.
Plant by mid-late October.

Contact Carolyn Remer (320-980-2168) or Amy Robak (612-400-3974) for more information.

Sign up NOW for SWCD Cover Crop Cost-Share Programs!

The Wright SWCD’s Cover Crop Cost-Share Program offers $50/acre! Contact Eric Mattson or Carolyn Remer. Their contact information is found below.

Eric Mattson

eric.mattson@usda.gov
763-614-2922

Carolyn Remer

cremer@centrasota.com
320-980-2168

Each district provides varying payment rates. Below is a list of counties throughout Centra Sota’s territory.

No-tilled Field!

Check out this no-tilled field! Last fall, the producer planted rye following tillage, then this spring planted soybeans directly into the rye. The rye was terminated the day after planting the soybeans. This is a great example of successful no-till and cover crops in action!

Producer in action, planting directly into the standing rye.

Shortly after planting, the rye residue is breaking down and adding organic matter to the soil.

Here’s the field today - soybeans are at growth stage R6. Harvest is near!

Private Cover Crop Cost Share Funds?

Did you know Practical Farmers of Iowa (PFI) offers private cover crop cost-share dollars in Minnesota that can be stacked on USDA-NRCS and SWCD funds? This program is now open and accepting enrollment! Application Deadline closes December 2, 2024, for the fall 2024 cover crop seeding window.

Payment rates are $10 or $15 per acre on an unlimited number of acres!

Visit bit.ly/PlantCovers24 to learn more and sign up! Applications only takes 10 minutes to complete!

Another Cost-Share Opportunity

The Minnesota Soil Health Coalition offers $10/acre to plant cover crops up to maximum/agreed upon acreage. Farmer requirements are listed below:

- Farmer must attend a Soil Health Event

- Farmer must complete a wrap-up survey by December 20th, 2024

- Farmer must give permission to FSA to obtain FSA-578 and field maps

- Provide production data

Visit Cost Share - MN Soil Health Coalition to apply!

Upcoming Local Soil Health Events:

SAVE THE DATE:

Minnesota State Cattleman Association Summer Tour

July 15, 2025

Little Falls, MN