Using datasets from large numbers of farms, Dr. Jef Hadachek created a model that allows farmers to input their own costs to see how their bottom line would be affected if they implemented specific conservation practices.

With significant weather-related damage to corn and soybean fields in Nebraska recently, there could be an opportunity for growers to try seeding cover crops in those fields to raise a high-quality forage and offset at least some of the lost fall and winter grazing potential, says University of Nebraska Extension.

This year's earlier corn silage harvest provides an opportunity to get cover crops established on those acres, says Ohio State University Extension.

Cover crops integrated with livestock systems can yield forage during periods where cattle producers need it most, to extend the grazing season and reduce or even eliminate their dependence on harvested feed, says Drovers Cattle Network.