Missouri

Missouri’s climate, topography and cropping mix historically has made its crop ground susceptible to excessive amounts of soil erosion.  Additionally, much of Missouri’s soils have limited top soil depth, resulting in many areas experiencing over 50% topsoil loss.  University of Missouri Extension efforts are focusing on cover crops to:

• Provide erosion control on rolling fields following soybeans.
• Provide grazing opportunities for the number two cow herd in the U.S.
• Improve degraded soil organic matter in many of the state’s soils.
• Determine best management practices of cover crops prior to corn.
• Attempt to improve infiltration in poorly drained clay pan soils.

These efforts are being conducted through collaborative efforts of the University of Missouri, NRCS the local SWCD’s and state cover crop cost share programs.