Cover crops markets expanding fast

By Scout Nelson

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture has announced a new round of grants to encourage the growth of continuous living cover (CLC) crops. These grants aim to support businesses, supply chains, and markets that are still in the early stages of development.

Continuous living cover refers to farming systems that keep plants growing in the soil throughout the year. This system helps protect the land, improve soil nutrients, reduce erosion, and make agricultural landscapes stronger and more resilient. Keeping soil always covered also helps maintain moisture and reduces environmental damage.

CLC systems include a variety of practices. These may involve growing winter crops between summer crops, using agroforestry systems, planting perennial crops, or combining farming with livestock such as poultry in silvopasture systems. These methods help create a balanced and healthy ecosystem.

Some examples of emerging crops in these systems include Kernza perennial grain, winter camelina, elderberry, and perennial flax. These crops not only support the environment but also offer new ways to earn income. They open doors for innovation and diversification in agriculture.

CLC crops provide several environmental benefits. They improve water quality, build healthier soil, capture carbon from the air, and support biodiversity. They also create habitats for pollinators, which are important for crop production.

However, for these crops to succeed on a larger scale, strong value chains are needed. This means proper systems for seed production, processing, transportation, and marketing. The grants will help Minnesota organizations build the necessary infrastructure and business capacity to support these processes.

By investing in these systems, Minnesota aims to promote sustainable agriculture while creating economic opportunities in rural areas. The program encourages long-term environmental care and supports innovation in farming practices.

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