Most information on cover crops in books and even from some farmer speakers indicates low carbon-to-nitrogen ratios mean nitrogen will be released to the cover crop. But some research North Dakota State University Extension is finding otherwise.

Substituting manure for commercial fertilizer has positive societal benefits for food security (increased yields) and for environmental protection (less nitrogen loss and lower greenhouse gas emissions).

Following the use of cover crops, farmers reported increased yields of corn, soybeans and wheat, and improved control of herbicide-resistant weeds, according to a nationwide survey. In addition, the survey of 2,012 farmers showed acreage planted in cover crops has nearly doubled over the past five years.

The latest study about the use of cover crops on the Great Plains has been released, this time focusing on Nebraska. And while the news about their impact on yields and soil-moisture use is mixed at best, that’s only part of the story.