Ecosystem Services of Cover Crops, Riparian Buffers, and Crop Rotation with Biochar on Eroded Midwest Corn/Soybean Landscapes

This project aims to better understand the environmental and economic impacts of a farm management system, which integrates three conservation practices including: cover crops, riparian buffers, and crop rotation with biochar. Specifically, we aim to: (1)Examine the improvements of soil health including nutrients (N and P) under cover crop practice(2) Demonstrate soil and productivity benefits of application of biochar, (3) Explore theenvironmental benefits of adopting a production system focused on water quality by adoption of riparian buffers, cover crops, and use of biochar, (4) Evaluate the economic profitability of adopting the farm management system, and (5) Promote the adoption of these conservation practices.