Seeing the benefits of reduced tillage, on a yield map, from a cost savings standpoint and increased erosion control. All three are absolutely proven, and Evan Brehm, Conservation Agronomist with the Iowa Soybean Association, says it starts with leaving the soil undisturbed following harvest.
“Being able to keep that soil in place in the field, especially in the dry areas, we’ve looked at a lot of these fertility maps and trying to make those decisions. It’s amazing when we get just a couple inches of rain how much that changes the thoughts and attitudes of our farmers. As it should, and it helps to being able to really realize the importance of keeping that soil in the field as it relates to putting out expensive products like the dry fertilizer.”
Of course, good fertility is necessary in producing final yield, but also knowing that if the soil is staying put, then the fertilizer is staying put in. That investment can now provide a better return. Brehm says there are many options.
“With the increased number of acres of strip till in my area, that’s been a big thing going to corn and growers looking at not tilling prior to soybeans, I think there are proven benefits. You know we are able to precisely place our fertilizers and that’s where I really like strip till. A lot of growers I talked to are really interested in that putting our dry fertilizer and anhydrous where it needs to be in that strip and then being able to plant on top of that strip.“
Certainly technology is another factor, but again that starts with making sure our most precious resource, our soil, remains intact and in the field and allowing Mother Nature to help us where she is capable.
