Building soil quality with strategic integration of low-impact tillage, Cover Crops and organic inputs

The specific objectives of this project include the measurement and evaluation of the effects to alternative cropping practices on soil microbial respiration and of the soil organic carbon accumulation as an indicator of advances in soil health. The project also aims to answer growers questions about cover crop nutrient cycling by monitoring such performance indicators as biomass yield, nitrogen uptake and release, and subsequent crop yields. It also aims to demonstrate and evaluate strategic selection and use of cover crop mixtures on crop growth and soil quality in row crops and develop and deliver educational materials to guide farmers in a systems approach to protecting and building soil health and natural productivity. The project also aims to increase farmer involvement in the development of practical, efficient and cost effective guidelines for improving soil health. Finally, it aims to develop and incorporate alternative management options for soil health in the NRCS Nutrient Management (590), Cover Crop (340), Waste Utilization (633), Residue Management (329A) and other relevant standards.