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Conservation Newsletter

Issue 3 | October 2024


Drone Cover Crop Seeding


Late summer leads to traditional ground rigs struggling to seed cover crops into tall corn while some farmers hesitate to seed into soybeans due to the risk of damaging plants if equipment strays from the rows. While hiring a crop duster to broadcast cover crop seed is an option, it may not be financially feasible for all producers. Drones offer a more accessible solution. They are easy to transport and can access areas of fields that crop dusters cannot.


The amount of seed a drone can carry varies based on both the type of drone and the cover crop seed being used. Since seed size differs among cover crop types, the seed mix will influence how many acres can be covered before needing to refill. A common mix used for late-season interseeding is kale, turnips, and clover.



Centra Sota drone interseeding cover crop into a soybean field.
Centra Sota drone interseeding cover crop into a soybean field.

By utilizing drone technology, farmers can improve their cover crop seeding practices and successfully overcome some of the challenges of conventional methods. For more information on integrating drones into your farming operations, please contact your local Centra Sota Crop Advisor.



Soil Health Assessments and Soil Sampling


As fall harvest is in full swing, many farmers will start reaching out to their crop advisors to arrange soil sampling for their fields. This practice provides the time needed to make informed nutrient management decisions based on the soil test results.


In addition to traditional soil sampling, soil health assessments are becoming increasingly popular. These assessments evaluate key factors that contribute to soil health, including water infiltration rates, compaction, soil color and smell, soil biology, and other important factors. While early summer is the recommended time for these assessments, they can also be effectively conducted in the fall after harvest and before the ground freezes. To maximize the benefits, it is important to assess the same field around the same time each year. Conducting soil health assessments every three to five years will help you make management decisions to improve your soil's health.

By incorporating both soil sampling and soil health assessments into your management practices, you can enhance the productivity of your fields!


Soil Health Assessments and Soil Sampling can enhance productivity of your fields.
Soil Health Assessments and Soil Sampling can enhance productivity of your fields.


MDA Livestock Investment Grants Due November 12th, 2024


This grant program reimburses investments in buildings or facilities to produce livestock or livestock products, development of pasture use for livestock, or equipment for livestock housing, confinement, feeding, and waste management.


For each project, the maximum grant amount available per fiscal year is $25,000. MDA will reimburse 10% of the first $250,000 of an eligible investment.




Beginning Farmer Equipment and Infrastructure Grant due November 21st, 2024!


This grant offers up to $20,000 for beginning farmers in Minnesota to make investments in their farm's equipment and infrastructure.


Funds available:

  • Up to $5,000 for a mini-grant or

  • Up to $20,000 for a full grant




Manure Sampling Reminder


As fall approaches, don't forget to take manure samples! Reach out to Amy Robak (612- 400-3974) with any questions.



Wright SWCD 2024 Outstanding Conservationist - Mike Young & Sons


The Wright Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) has proudly named Mike Young and his sons, Jacob and Thomas, as the "Outstanding Conservationists for 2024." This recognition highlights their exceptional commitment to conservation farming practices. They will be recognized at the Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts Annual Convention in December.


Mike Young (center) with his sons, Jacob (left) and Thomas (right), in their no-till soybean field with a strip-till corn field visible in the background.
Mike Young (center) with his sons, Jacob (left) and Thomas (right), in their no-till soybean field with a strip-till corn field visible in the background.

Seventeen years ago, Mike transitioned from chisel plowing to strip-tilling. With matching funds from the Wright SWCD, Mike acquired his first strip till bar, a tool he continues to use today. This shift led to notable improvements in yield, compaction, water infiltration, and other soil health factors.


Strip-tilled field following soybean harvest.
Strip-tilled field following soybean harvest.

Mike's dedication to conservation practices not only enhances his farm's productivity but sets a model for responsible stewardship for future generations.

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