Cover Crops Perennial Pastures Field Day

By Scout Nelson

Join the north central research and outreach center (NCROC) for A free field day on September 19 at the agronomy building, 31654 Harristown Road, grand rapids. Check-in begins at 8:30 A.M., The program runs from 9:00 A.M. To noon, and lunch follows. The event welcomes crop and livestock professionals, advisers, students, and community members interested in practical steps to improve soil health and pasture performance.

Cover crop research. Learn about current research at NCROC and across Minnesota on how to establish and manage cover crops and how they fit into long-term crop rotations. See what is happening below ground, where roots and residues influence water runoff and infiltration. Presenters will share lessons on species selection, seeding timing, and management approaches that support resilient cropping systems.

Perennial pasture research. Hear the latest on best management practices for perennial pastures. Speakers will connect forage quality to animal fertility, explain grazing timing and rest periods, and discuss strategies to maintain stand vigor through weather swings while protecting soil structure and water quality.

Tools you can use. Try A grazing stick to estimate pasture yield and compare results with scissor-cut data. Explore current resources that can assist with planning, establishing, and managing cover crops and with day-to-day pasture decisions. Simple tools and clear benchmarks help translate research into field action.

Speakers. Featured presenters include Dr. Axel Garcia Y Garcia, sustainable cropping systems specialist; Dr. Eric Mouse, beef systems management specialist; Liz Stahl and Angie Peltier, extension educators – crops; and Gabi Bolwerk, extension educator – water resources and soil health.

There is no cost to attend. The program will be held rain or shine. Please dress for the weather; A portion of the field day will take place outdoors, conditions permitting. The schedule is designed to maximize hands-on learning and allow time for questions with the research and extension team.

“Funding for this project was provided by the Minnesota environment and natural resources trust fund as recommended by the legislative-citizen commission on Minnesota resources (LCCMR).”

Photo Credit:gettyimages-goodlifestudio