Haskell Ag Lab to highlight cover crop research

CONCORD — Have you considered growing cover crops, tried and failed but want to succeed, or had success but want to try something new?

I have used cover crops in my garden with moderate success but scaling it up for our farm is different - we just haven’t gotten the results we were looking for. In a couple weeks, growers in Northeast Nebraska will have the opportunity to learn about the cover crop research happening at the Haskell Ag Lab near Concord. With the upcoming field day, I’m excited to learn more about varieties and strategies that might work better for my situation – from someone that’s doing it near me! And while I’m there, I hope to have the opportunity to meet with other producers that have similar goals.

On Tuesday, April 30, Haskell Ag Lab will host a Cover Crops Field Day to share what the researchers are learning about fall-planted cover crops tailored to diverse management goals. The field day runs from 1-3 pm and will feature guided tours through three research trials, showcasing the latest findings and practical insights into cover crop management and benefits.

The program kicks off with an in-depth look at the research plots dedicated to evaluating the fertilizer N equivalence values of cereal rye cover crops. This research is conducted in long-term plots that vary by tillage, nitrogen rate, and crop rotation and were originally established in the mid-80s, with the cover crop being established much more recently. The tour will highlight the difference cover crops make across various treatments as well as a comprehensive demonstration of how data is being collected.

The second stop features a review of cover crop varieties. It includes multiple variants of each species including rye, triticale, wheat, barley, oats, hairy vetch, brassicas and a number of mixes. Attendees will learn to identify cover crop species and understand their growth stages. Discussion will focus on setting realistic goals and performance expectations for different species, accompanied by an overview of data collection efforts assessing cover crop performance.

The final stop will introduce participants to plots concentrating on the integrated use of cover crop, mulch and manure management strategies to mitigate nitrate leaching in cornfields. This session will offer insights into the techniques employed for collecting water samples to gauge nitrate-leaching, as well as comprehensive efforts in gathering soil health data.

This field day provides an opportunity to learn about leading research and to engage with experts in the field as well as meet other producers that have similar interests. Refreshments will be provided. The University of Nebraska Haskell Ag Lab is located at 57905 866 Rd., Concord, Nebraska.

There is no fee to attend, but please pre-register by Monday, April 29 at https://go.unl.edu/2024halcovercropregistration.