Sat 10/24
Sun 10/25
Mon 10/26
Tue 10/27
Wed 10/28
High
31 F
28 F
30 F
29 F
34 F
Low
19 F
22 F
15 F
11 F
Precip
0%
80%
Depending on your production schedule and the growing conditions in any given year, you might find that you have fields sitting empty for extended periods of time. This fallow period is often viewed as a problem, but at Central Counties, we encourage growers to approach it as an opportunity to improve their fields while also increasing their economic returns.
Left alone, fallow acres often spring up to weeds that require tillage or herbicide for control. This weed control costs money, but doesn’t generate revenue in return. Rather than allowing fields to sit empty, some growers will plant cover crops after harvest that can be successfully grown for forage or soil improvement that can reach maturity without much moisture.
In addition to experiencing many of these benefits on your farm, you might be eligible for cover crop incentive payments through the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). Click here for more information.
We carry a number of high quality cover crops at Central Counties Co-op, including cereal ryegrass, turnips, radishes and others. For customized assistance in incorporating cover crops into your operation, check with your Central Counties advisor.
If you’ve been a member of Central Counties Co-op for a long time, there’s a good chance that you know Kevin Trapp. Kevin joined the cooperative back in 1982 and has worked in numerous roles during his tenure, including custom applications and petroleum delivery and service. In recent years, Kevin has helped growers maximize their farm’s production by assisting them with crop planning, seed selection and chemical and fertilizer recommendations. In fact, the fall fertilizer season is his favorite time of year. As a member of the Kandiyohi County Corn & Soybean Growers Association Board of Directors, he’s always striving to increase public awareness of the importance of agriculture and environmental stewardship in the area. Kevin grew up on his family farm in Blomkest, MN, where his dad farmed his entire life. After graduating from high school, he earned an Ag Business degree from Ridgewater College before joining Central Counties 38 years ago. Kevin and his wife, Karen, have two sons. When he isn’t busy working with farmers, you’ll likely find him spending time at the lake – boating, grilling and relaxing with family and friends.
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