wabasha-soil-water-20251210144902

Funding for Sustainable Farmer Led Projects- Apply by January 2nd 2026

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 21:48:23 GMT

Funding for Sustainable Farmer Led Projects- Apply by January 2nd 2026

Don't miss out on this great opportunity! Small grants will be awarded through a competitive process for ready-to-go, farmer-led projects! Follow the link below or scan the QR code to apply. The deadline to apply is January 2nd, 2026.

Upcoming Free Webinar: Why Organic Matter Matters

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 21:48:42 GMT

Upcoming Free Webinar: Why Organic Matter Matters

Join the Cannon River Watershed Joint Powers Organization as they host the second session of the 2025-2026 virtual learning series “Land to Lake Lectures.” Since agricu lture began, soil organic matter has declined by 50–70% in many farm fields, reducing productivity and resilience. Jodi DeJong-Hughes, University of Minnesota Extension, will explain why organic matter is critical for soil health, water retention, and nutrient cycling. Additionally, she will share strategies farmers and gardeners can use to rebuild organic matter. Funding options for implementing conservation practices will also be discussed. The sessions will be broadcast in cooperation with the University of Minnesota Extension on Zoom.

The free webinar will be held on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at 12:00 pm over the lunch hour. Register for the webinar at https://z.umn.edu/OrganicMatter . The webinar will be video recorded and posted on the CRWJPO’s website at https://www.cannonriverwatershedmn.gov afterward for those who cannot attend.

The virtual learning sessions “Land to Lake Lectures” will continue throughout the fall and into the spring with a different topic each month over the lunch hour. Learn more about the different topics for each session at https://www.cannonriverwatershedmn.gov/events-1 . For more information contact Emmie Scheffler at (507) 332-5408 or Emmie.scheffler@riceswcd.org .

Free Nitrate Testing at The Wabasha County Fair

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 21:48:55 GMT

Free Nitrate Testing at The Wabasha County Fair

Wabasha Public Health: Flu Vaccines for Farm Workers

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 21:49:08 GMT

Wabasha Public Health: Flu Vaccines for Farm Workers

As you might already be aware, a multistate outbreak of HPAI A(H5N1) bird flu in dairy cows was reported in March. Then, on April 1, CDC confirmed one human HPAI A(H5N1) infection in a person with exposure to dairy cows that were presumed to be infected with the virus. This is thought to be the first instance of likely mammal to human spread of HPAI A(H5N1) virus. Since April, four human cases have been confirmed among adults who were in contact with cows or working at dairy farms.

While the risk to the general public is currently low, people who work with infected animals are at high risk of infection. At this time, there is no current vaccine for H5N1 bird flu, but it is important that people who may have frequent exposure to infected or potentially infected birds, cows, or other animals get a seasonal flu vaccine. Doing so can provide protection against seasonal flu and might reduce the very rare risk of coinfection with a human seasonal virus and an avian virus at the same time, which could lead to the HPAI virus mutating and causing significant public health concern.

We are strongly encouraging all farm workers to receive the seasonal flu vaccine this year and urging employers of farm workers to encourage vaccination. To support these efforts, we have received additional funding for seasonal flu vaccine, to be primarily used for farm workers and their families who would be eligible for UUAV vaccine. If you are located in Wabasha County and are interested in talking about this and a potential for vaccine clinics at your farm please contact Tammy Fiedler or Jodi Johnson at Wabasha County Public Health 651-565-5200.

Contact:

Tammy Fiedler or Jodi Johnson

Wabasha County Public Health

651-565-5200

EPA Inspections Notice

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 21:49:24 GMT

EPA Inspections Notice

Inspections Notice

It has come to our attention that the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will be conducting site inspections in Southeast Minnesota soon. They will be conducting inspections on National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit holders. Staff from the MN Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) are notified, and EPA prefers that MPCA staff join them. County feedlot officers will be invited, but they will not have details until the day of the site visit. Wabasha County does not have a locally delegated feedlot officer. By policy the EPA does not provide notice to the farms as part of their normal inspection schedule. EPA prefers to conduct inspections during wet periods to aid in their investigations. Apart from these current inspections, the state MPCA staff routinely conduct periodic inspections of NPDES permit holders. If you have questions, please contact:

EPA: burdett.cheryl@epa.gov 312-886-1463

MPCA: mark.p.gernes@state.mn.us 507-344-5260

Sept. 30, 2024

Free well water testing and funding for Southeastern Minnesota well owners

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 21:56:59 GMT

Free well water testing and funding for Southeastern Minnesota well owners

Press Release

Date: July 15, 2024

Contact: Terri Peters/Tammy Fiedler

Free well water testing and funding for Southeastern Minnesota well owners

Wabasha County, Minn. – Private well owners in Southeastern Minnesota can now receive free water testing kits, while supplies last. They also have an opportunity to apply for funding assistance to fix contamination issues with their water through the TAP-IN Safe Drinking Water Program (https://safe-drinking-water-for-private-well-users-gis-olmsted.hub.arcgis.com/). Funding will be prioritized to participants who have a financial hardship or if pregnant women or infants under the age of one live in their homes.

Southeastern Minnesota Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs), county environmental services, and county public health departments run the program funded by the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH).

“To keep our community healthy, the TAP-IN program ensures that all residents have equitable access to safe drinking water," said Olmsted SWCD Water Resources Coordinator Caitlin Meyer. "We work together to protect our water sources and help our community."

The karst landscape in Southeastern Minnesota has many sinkholes, springs, caves, and other features that make it easy for contaminants to get into the groundwater. Well owners should test their water regularly to ensure its’ safety.

Why test well water?

Nitrate: High nitrate levels in drinking water can be dangerous, especially for babies and pregnant people. Nitrate can enter water from fertilizers and waste. Well owners should test their water for nitrate every year.
Coliform Bacteria: This bacteria indicates that water might be contaminated by sewage, animals, or surface water, which could mean other harmful germs are present. Test for coliform bacteria every year.
Arsenic: This is found naturally in soil and rocks but can dissolve into water and cause serious health problems. Test for arsenic at least once.
Manganese: Small amounts are okay, but too much can cause problems with memory and learning, especially for kids. Households with children should test for manganese at least once.
Lead: Lead can get into water from old pipes and affect development in children, and cause health problems in adults. Test for lead at least once, especially in households with infants.

What to do if contaminants are present in well water

If water has high levels of these contaminants, well owners can apply for financial assistance for remediation. This can include installing water treatment equipment, fixing wells, or sometimes even installing a new well. Assistance depends on eligibility. Local county offices may cover 50-100% of the cost of installing water treatment.

"The health of our community is our top priority," said Olmsted County Public Health Environmental Health Lab Manager Lauri Clements. "By offering free well water testing and financial assistance, we are taking a service-focused approach to address environmental health concerns and ensure residents in Southeastern Minnesota have clean and safe water to drink."

How to apply

To apply for the TAP-IN program, participants need to:.

Use a private well for drinking water. Homeowners and renters in Wabasha County may apply. Dodge, Fillmore, Goodhue, Houston, Mower, Olmsted, Rice, & Winona counties are also participating.
Have a certified lab test showing the well is contaminated. The test must be from the last three years.
Meet priority eligibility requirements. Participants may get extra assistance if they have a financial hardship or if pregnant women or infants under the age of one live in their homes.
Consult a licensed professional for a plan and cost estimate to fix the well. Participants should consult a licensed well driller, licensed pump installed, or water treatment professional. Any work done on the well prior to approval from the local county office will not be reimbursed.
Use the online form to submit the application, project plan, and lab test report to a local county office or SWCD. For Wabasha County, contact the SWCD at (651) 565-4673 This online form be found on the TAP-IN website previously referenced.

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About Wabasha County

Wabasha County is located in Southeast Minnesota along the Mississippi River and is made up of several small and rural communities. This location allows for unmatched natural beauty as well as a diverse wildlife population. The city of Wabasha is the county seat and also Minnesota’s first and longest continuously inhabited River town.

About Wabasha Soil and Water Conservation District

The mission statement of the Wabasha Soil & Water Conservation District is to provide technical, financial, and informational resources for land and water management in a way that promotes a sound economy and sustains and enhances natural resources.

The SWCD assists farmers, communities, watershed planners, and landowners in developing and implementing conservation and resource management systems and practices including tree sales. The SWCD also serves as a source for conservation and resource information and provides environmental education for county residents.  

About Wabasha County Public Health Services  

Wabasha County Public Health Services (WCPHS) provides critical health services to the entire community. Our employees work closely with various entities in the community, such as government, businesses, educational institutions, health care organizations, and non-profits to address community health issues and find solutions. 

Join us for a Conservation Field Day: Creating a Soil Health Legacy

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 21:52:09 GMT

Join us for a Conservation Field Day: Creating a Soil Health Legacy

Conservation Field Day: Creating a Soil Health Legacy

August 1st, 2024 from 10 am - 2:30 pm, RSVP by July 29th

at the Larry and Ross Greden Family Farm

16764 County Rd 114 Altura, MN *Not at the main dairy*

Experience a day of learning, networking, and a farm tour at Larry and Ross Greden Farms. The Greden family has over 150-year history living on and operating this farm, and has been prioritizing innovation and sustainability to ensure their farm legacy lives on for future generations. This event is designed to bring farmers together across Southeast Minnesota to share strategies that enhance soil health and protect water quality.

What to Expect:

Farm Tour: Presented by the Greden family, explore the diverse landscape of Greden Farms which includes a native prairie, a living snow fence, cover crop test plots, high-protein hay, no-till corn, a runoff control structure, and many trees planted over the years.
Discussion Session: Participate in facilitated small group sessions on a topic you are most interested in – topics include: Converting to reduced or no-till practices, starting cover crops, growing small grains, and nitrogen crediting of manure and cover crops. Share your experiences and learn from others who are dedicated to improving soil health.
Farm Panel: Hear from a panel of farmers who are experienced in various conservation practices, how they got started, trials they have done, programs they have participated in, and more. Panelists include: Keith Speltz, Eric Heins, and Ken Bergler.
Steps to Cost Share: Many conservation practices have cost share programs, and new programs are emerging. Soil and Water Conservation District staff, Natural Resource Conservation Service staff, and staff from other conservation organizations will have information available on funding opportunities and will share steps to gaining cost share assistance.
Free Lunch: Enjoy a complimentary ribeye steak sandwich lunch with red potatoes, green beans, coleslaw, cookies, and milk.

To register for the event, click here! (Limit to 120 People)

(Position Filled) We're Hiring for a Soil Health Nutrient Specialist

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 22:01:14 GMT

(Position Filled) We're Hiring for a Soil Health Nutrient Specialist

We are no longer taking applications. This position has been filled.

Description : ESSENTIAL WORK FUNCTIONS (ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY):

Under the supervision of the District Manager, the Soil Health/ Nutrient Management Specialist is a full-time planning and technical consulting position. Performs skilled technical work assisting and educating producers in the development of their Nutrient Management Plans, Soil Health, Grazing and Best Management Practices. Will include aspects of technical assistance, education and outreach. Will have ability to take ownership of programs assigned and meet deliverable outcomes.

Minimum Qualifications of Education and Experience:

Associates/Technical degree in agriculture, or related field, and some experience in agriculture or farm management, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Bachelor’s degree and agricultural knowledge/experience preferred.

Regular and reliable attendance is a necessary component of job/position. Individuals required to use Wabasha County SWCD vehicles and equipment must have a valid driver’s license and be free of any major traffic violations for the last three (3) years.

BACKGROUND AND CERTIFICATIONS

• Must pass a criminal background check.

• Must have a valid MN class D driver’s license or equivalent.

Job Description

Apply

Contact : hr@co.wabasha.mn.us

651-565-3675

Deadline for Applying : This position has been filled

Apply online at the Wabasha County Website

Limited Private Well Testing and Alternative Water for Eligible Private Well Households

Thu, 16 May 2024 22:04:22 GMT

Limited Private Well Testing and Alternative Water for Eligible Private Well Households

State Agencies are working together to address nitrate in drinking water in SE Minnesota. We will be partnering with them going forward. This flyer lists some criteria to be eligible for bottled water through the Minnesota Department of Health.

To determine if a household is eligible for bottled water or free testing, please use the following links:

Bottled water survey Code: 3JXFDHJ7W (copy the code to get access to the survey)

Free well test kit survey Code: ATANCH79J (copy the code to get access to the survey)

If anyone needs assistance completing the form, please contact (651) 201-4366.

If you have any questions, please contact health.privatewells@state.mn.us

More information is available at Response to EPA Nitrate Letter for Southeast Minnesota (www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/water/wells/waterquality/nitratesemn.html).

West Indian Creek Winter 2024

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 14:49:08 GMT

West Indian Creek Winter 2024

Dates to Remember

February 9 - Forestry Day at The Front Porch

Join us 9am-3pm at The Front Porch in Kellogg for discussion on forest management, foraging, noxious weeds and more!

$12 registration includes morning refreshments and lunch

February 3 - EQIP Special Sign-up deadline for West Indian Creek. Funding available for landowners and operators in West Indian Creek. Please contact John Benjamin for details (651) 560-2050 or John.Benjamin@usda.gov

Meet Miscanthus saccariflorus aka Amur silvergrass

Have you seen this plant? Miscanthus saccariflorus, common Amur silvergrass, is an invasive grass. It can be confused with Pampas grasses, also invasive to this region. The plant forms dense monocultures that outcompete native plants and may affect wildlife habitat. Amur silvergrass mainly spreads via rhizomatous roots. Rhizome fragments that move to new locations can result in a new infestation. It is quite tolerant of wind, its flowers are wind pollinated and seeds are dispersed by wind. Amur silvergrass can be found planted as an ornamental across many areas of the United States, especially the Northeast and the Midwest. It has been known to escape plantings and invade nearby natural areas.

Its potential ability to hybridize with Chinese Silvergrass (Miscanthus sinensis) may be an issue as hybrids of these two species may be able to produce prolific amounts of seed. The plant was recently added to Minnesota Department of Agriculture's Noxious Weed Restricted List. Addressing invasives early on in their establishment is easier and less costly. Big bluestem and Indiangrass and two tall native grasses to consider for planting instead. To learn more how to control and report it please visit MDA's website: www.mda.state.mn.us/reportapest

You may contact Kayla Haberkorn, Wabasha County Weed Inspector at 651-565-3068 or khaberkorn@co.wabasha.mn.us

The Impact of Land Use Changes on Farming Profitability

Since 2001, there has been an increase in frequency of land use change across the United States. Most of this change has been loss of forested land, urban expansion, and cultivated crop expansion according to data from the National Land Cover Database. In West Indian Creek, the greatest change has been cultivated crop expansion. Between 2001 and 2021, there was a decrease in hay and pastured acres by 4.4% and a decrease in grassland and herbaceous cover by 12.2%, while cultivated crop acres increased by 14.5% (see map) *. But what does this mean, and why does this matter?

It comes down to soil health. Soil health has been the buzzword in agriculture for several years now, and for good reason. The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) defines soil health as the “continued capacity of soil to function as a vital living ecosystem that sustains plants, animals, and humans.” Soil health is attained by maximizing presence of living roots, soil cover, and biodiversity, while minimizing soil disturbance – which is something perennial cover is great at doing. Pasture, hay, and herbaceous cover are all forms of perennial vegetation because they have living roots in the ground at all times of the year. The benefits of perennial cover include increased water infiltration, flood resiliency and decreased peak flows, carbon sequestration, habitat and biodiversity, filtering and buffering of pollutants, nutrient cycling, and improved soil structure.

Unfortunately, with the pace of land use change and increased soil disturbance, our annual soil loss has surpassed that of the Dust Bowl. According to Encyclopedia Britannica, 1.2 billion tons of soil were lost during the peak of the Dust Bowl, while the most recent update from the Natural Resources Inventory reports 1.7 million tons of soil loss on cropland in the U.S. annually. This not only has serious ecological implications but will also decrease farm productivity and profitability. Soil loss is nutrient loss. A study in the Soil Science Society of America Journal showed that eroded sediment has 2.1x more organic matter, 2.7x more nitrogen, 3.4x more available phosphorus, and 19.3x more available potassium than the bulk soil. Fertilizer expenses typically account for one-third of total input costs for crop operations, so that eroded soil is dollars washing away. Other costs of soil loss include decreased water holding capacity, resulting in increased irrigation costs and significant crop stress especially during drought years like 2023.

Managing for soil health and keeping soil in its place can help mitigate these costs and lead to increased resiliency to market changes, drought, and extreme weather. We have observed that some folks have a hesitation to adopt soil health practices because they fear the potential impact on yield. However, return on investment (ROI) is an important detail to analyze. An executive summary from Minnesota State Agricultural Centers of Excellence showed similar ROI for corn grown with no cover crop and corn grown after a cover crop in Southern MN, even with an average 10 bu/ac yield decrease on the cover cropped fields. Reducing tillage also offers decreased input costs, due to less time spent in the field and less fuel used. According to a report by the University of Illinois, a disk ripper and field cultivator tillage program can cost over $35/acre. Reducing tillage can save between $10-40/acre depending on the type of tillage implement used.

For corn/soy rotations, establishing perennial vegetation is not completely out of the picture. Every field has its less productive areas, especially along field edges or low spots. A study in England was conducted to see what would happen if those acres were taken out of production and put into wildlife habitat. They compared fields with no change to fields with up to 8% of converted wildlife habitat and found either sustained or increased yields over a 6-year period, despite the loss of cropland for habitat creation. The increased productivity per acre on in this study was attributed to the benefits of perennial cover mentioned earlier, especially increased habitat and biodiversity that allowed pollinators and beneficial insects to thrive. Now, there is a new buzzword for this practice and that is “precision conservation.” This method utilizes precision ag technology to identify underperforming acres both in crop productivity and ROI. In a webinar hosted by Iowa Learning Farms, it was shown that poorly performing acres are often revenue negative, costing the farmer more than $200/ac to farm. They also demonstrate how the technology can be used to choose conservation practices that are revenue positive. The webinar recording is available to view online at: tinyurl.com/precisionconservation

Making changes to your operation can feel intimidating, and building soil health takes time, which is why there are resources available in the form of technical assistance and/or cost share programs. Please contact the Wabasha SWCD or NRCS for questions about best management practices, programs available, or for assistance on your farm at (651) 565-4673 ext. 3.

Nutrient Management Initiative - Improve fertilizer efficiency and water quality

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 14:54:55 GMT

Nutrient Management Initiative - Improve fertilizer efficiency and water quality

The Minnesota Nutrient Management Initiative (NMI) assists farmers and crop advisers in evaluating nutrient management practices on their own fields

It is a simple tool that can lead to improved fertilizer efficiency and improved water quality.

Each participating farmer can work with a crop adviser to set up field trials on their farms. After completing plot harvest and submitting the required forms, farmers and crop advisers are reimbursed for their time and receive a summary and analysis of their results.

NMI is for corn grown for grain only (wheat is acceptable in the northwest region).
Wheat growers in northwest or west central Minnesota are encouraged to participate in the Minnesota Wheat On-Farm Research Network. Contact Melissa Carlson at 952-738-2000 or mcarlson@mnwheat.com for more information.
A crop adviser and farmer must enroll in NMI separately in order to receive the full payment. Registration begins the second Tuesday of January each year and closes when the funding limit is reached, or March 15th.

Compensation

Farmers and crop advisers are compensated for each field trial. The rate of compensation is higher for those that participate in the Advanced Rate Trial. Due to State contracting policies, individual participant payments are paid in two equal installments (June & December).

Farmer Compensation

Crop Adviser Compensation

Highlights

Nearly 700 on-farm trials established statewide since 2015
Great participation from crop advisers statewide, many have hosted winter meetings to discuss results with participants
Crop advisers used NMI to promote new management strategies and equipment that is available to boost yields and fertilizer efficiency for farmers
Results from the additional advanced nitrogen rate trials will help guide current nitrogen rate recommendations and will be used in the nitrogen rate calculator
Advancements in technology have helped to make field trials easier to install and harvest, minimizing the time commitment

Results and information from these field trials will:

Assist farmers and crop advisers in evaluating current nutrient management practices versus an alternative practice they would like to try on their farm.
Provide an opportunity to compare different nutrient management practices and evaluate economic outcomes.
Assist participants in evaluating practices which can help reduce nitrate-nitrogen losses from fields.
Highlight advanced nutrient management practices farmers and crop advisers are using to improve economic and environmental outcomes.

Individual results will be kept confidential. Statewide results will be summarized for outreach purposes to highlight and promote existing farm practice advancements and BMP adoption in Minnesota.

For more information or to enroll please visit the Minnesota Department of Agriculture Nutrient Management Initiative website.

SWCD Stream January-February 2024

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 15:00:39 GMT

SWCD Stream January-February 2024

Happy New Year from us at Wabasha SWCD!
Tree sale orders have been flowing in, and we still have more trees left for you to order. Not seeing arbovitae on our list? Have no fear, Arbovitae is a type of White Cedar, which is on our list! Check out our website for more tree info.
Don’t forget your tree protectors! We have 24" tree protectors available this year - only $1.75!
February 9th is Wabasha Forestry Day! Join us 9am-3pm at The Front Porch in Kellogg for discussion on forest management, foraging, noxious weeds and more. $12 registration includes morning refreshments and lunch
As temps get colder, it’s almost time for winter pruning. Stay tuned for an article on pruning in our next newsletter, or contact Katelyn Abts for some tree pruning tips at (651) 560-2045 or katelyn.abts@mn.nacdnet.net.

SWCD Updates

Local Champions for Conservation Recognized at MASWCD State Convention

On Wednesday December 20th, Wabasha County locals were recognized for their commitment to conservation at the Minnesota Association for Soil and Water Conservation Districts (MASWCD) State Convention. Jake and Gretchen Meyer were recognized as Wabasha County’s Outstanding Conservationist and Larry Gates received Minnesota’s Outstanding Forest Steward Award.

The Outstanding Conservationist Award is to recognize individuals, conservation organizations, and others for outstanding accomplishments with implementing conservation practices and improving natural resources. Jake and Gretchen took over operations at Bluff View Farms around 2019 and it wasn’t long before they contacted us to discuss options for conservation. With farm located upland of West Indian Creek, their family enjoys spending time by the water where there are plenty of rocks for the kids to turn over and trails to explore. They’ve made conservation a priority on their farm to protect this resource. In addition to planting on the contour, they have been implementing no-till and cover crops as a regular part of their cropping system. Their goal is to improve soil health to decrease surface runoff, and encourage water infiltration to filter nutrients before reaching lakes, streams, and groundwater. As part of this effort, they have volunteered to participate in a lysimeter study to monitor nitrate leaching. Congratulations to Jake and Gretchen for their award - we appreciate their work to improve our natural resources!

The Minnesota Outstanding Forest Steward award honors landowners who have implemented innovative forestry conservation activities, demonstrated leadership and achieved significant results in the protection of Minnesota’s forestry resources. Larry Gates dedicated his entire career to conservation and continues that passion into retirement. He is generous with his time, volunteering to provide input on plans, programs, host or participate in field days, workshops and more. Larry also manages ~520 acres in East Indian Creek valley that encompasses permanent hay, tillable ground, permanent pasture, a cold water stream supporting brown and brook trout, and several bluff prairies the he regularly burns, and forested bluffs. Several tillable fields have been permanently retired and seeded to a mix of hardwood trees and shrubs. The remaining tillable fields will be permanently retired by 2027. Larry’s goal is to enhance ecosystems to improve water quality and support wildlife, recreation, and future generations. Congratulations to Larry - we are grateful for his dedication to conservation in SE MN!

We received more interest than ever for cover crop cost share programs in the fall of 2023, and we anticipate having more funds available for cover crop cost share for 2024. As you start planning for the 2024 growing season, keep cover crops in mind. Although most of us typically start thinking about cover crops around August and September, planning for cover crops like we plan for our cash crops can make a big difference in the success of our cover crop. Start thinking about your goals, and what you want your cover crop to do for you. Do you have soil erosion concerns? Do you struggle with soil compaction? Are you wanting forage for your livestock?

Accomplishing these goals is all about timing and species selection, especially when you’re planting cover crops after harvest. To get the most bang for your buck, getting a good establishment of your cover crop is key. Each year is different, and this year we had a warm fall that made ideal conditions for cover crop establishment and we saw a lot of above ground growth going into winter. But even in a warm fall, most cover crop species need to be planted by the end of September. Once we get into October, you’re limited to cereal grains like rye, wheat, and triticale or the cold hardy brassica, winter camelina. If your goal is to plant a cover crop in 2024, some factors to consider now include crop maturity, seeding date for covers, which areas of your farm to prioritize cover, forage needs, and current equipment or budget for custom planting. The more you can plan ahead, the better your opportunity for a successful cover crop will be.

We can’t control the weather, and input costs seem to only be increasing, which is why there are cost share programs available. The goal for cost share is to reduce financial risk while you work to fit cover crops in your rotation. For technical assistance, contact Jenna by phone at (651) 560-2051 or email jenna.rasmusson@mn.nacdnet.net.