Cover crops are planted after primary crops (vegetables, corn, soybeans, etc.) are harvested. They not only cover and stabilize bare soil in order to reduce potential erosion, they also improve soil health by increasing organic matter and store unused nutrients for the next crop year, just to name a few of the many benefits. Please contact SWCD for more information on planning to plant cover crops.

Cost-share programs have species, planting rates and date requirements to be eligible for financial assistance.

General Criteria for Cover Crop Programs include:

Seed

  • Certified seed OR
  • Seed with a purity and germ test of 85% pure live seed
    • Test no more than 9 months old

Seed Dates

  • Winter Rye, Winter Wheat, Triticale – no later than October 15th

If interested in using other types of seed contact the district for seeding dates. 

 

Seed Rates

  • Winter Rye, Winter Wheat, Triticale
    • 112 lbs/acre if drilled
    • Add 20% to seed rate if broadcast only
      • 135 lbs/acre

 If interested in using other species, contact the district for recommendations and rates.

 

Other Details

  • If cover crop is intended for forage harvest, manure cannot be applied once seeded

Other information we will need for reporting

  • Manure application timing
  • Method of termination
  • Seed bed prep (if any)
  • Seeding method and rate
  • Number of acres