On Thurs (Oct. 16) from 9 am to 1 pm., the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and the Sherburne Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) will host a Cover Crop Field Day at the junction of Hwy 10 and  Co. Rd. 11, 2 miles east of Becker.   

 

Cover crops are not new to Sherburne County as many farmers plant oats or rye in the fall to protect their fields from wind erosion.  These demonstration plots, planted after harvesting red potatoes, showcase other seed mixes that can be grown for cover crops. Agency staff will be on hand to discuss five cover crop mixes that could be used to meet soil health goals beyond controlling wind erosion.

At the field day, visitors can see mixes that improve soil fertility and soil health, reduce compaction and weeds, recycle nutrients, and provide pollinator benefits.  The results of soil nitrate sampling before and after planting will also be available.

 

 The cover crop demonstration plantings and field day provides an opportunity for farmers to see which cover crops are adapted to our area and to discuss ways to incorporate them into their local cropping system.

 

For more information about the field day or cover crops, please contact the NRCS or Sherburne SWCD office at 763-241-1170, ext. 4.