Completed Project Report


Building Resiliency and Improving Profitability through Adoption of No-Till Production Systems in Northern Climates

  • Award Amount: $32,069
  • Regional Center: Northeast Extension Risk Management Education Center
  • Grant Program: 2016 Education Projects
  • Project Director: Heather Darby
  • Email: heather.darby@uvm.edu
  • Organization: University of Vermont and State Agricultural College

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Project Overview

No-till cropping systems have been shown to reduce crop production costs and can also reduce soil erosion, increase water infiltration, increase soil health, and increase crop resiliency in extreme weather events. Once developed, these systems can mitigate production and financial risks associated with growing a cash crop such as corn and soybeans through improved soil health characteristics. To increase successful adoption of no-till cropping systems, we developed and delivered research-based information on best practices for no-till silage corn production for northern climates. Delivery methods included 7 on-farm demonstrations/field days, one YouTube video, 2 bulletins on best no-till management practices, and a webinar series. As a result, 103 participants indicated that they would try no-till to better manage their risks of growing silage corn. Fifteen farmers in the project adopted no-till on an average of 35% of their total acres. These farmers reported an average cost savings of $55 per acre.

 

Number of Participants: 588

Outcomes

Project Steps

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EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS

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DELIVERY AREA

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