There’s no doubt that much of the rapid increase in no-tilled acres over the past 20 years is due to the extensive use of glyphosate-resistant corn and soybeans. Yet, extensive reliance on this single herbicide mode of action may be holding back the future growth of no-till. Even more worrisome is the impact it could have on simply maintaining the no-till acres we already have.

Like many no-tillers, Ben Fehl has seen the value of tiling both rented and owned ground. Major benefits from tiling include increased yield, less soil compaction, improved soil and water quality, reduced soil erosion and greater economic return.

Like many no-tillers in North America, Australian no-tillers are concerned with the impact of changing climate and drought conditions. However, no-till and several other innovative ideas have helped the country’s wheat growers deal with reduced water supplies while boosting yields over the past 3 decades.

Data from a recent cover-crop survey offers solid evidence that no-tillers are ahead of many other farmers when it comes to recognizing the value of keeping their ground covered throughout the year.