Cover crops are planted to cover the soil between cropping cycles to protect against both wind and water erosion. They are not harvested, but instead are turned under or left on the surface to decompose once their protective function is complete. Other benefits: they may cut fertilizer costs, reduce the need for pesticides, and increase crop yields by improving soil health. Cover crops planted to control wind erosion must be adapted to the site and grow fast to protect the soil quickly.

Incentive monies are available for the following options:
1. Incentive payments of $10 to $12 per acre will be offered for producers planting a cover crop after the harvest of green pea (late harvest) and sugar beets.
2. For pea canning ground, an incentive payment of $10 per acre is offered to plant a cover crop after harvest.
3. For the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), an additional $4 will be offered on top of the regular payment of $8 per acre. A payment of $12 per acre will be offered if it doesn't qualify under EQIP.

Cover crops are grown to protect and improve the soil, not to harvest. Cover crops have the potential to improve soil tilth, control erosion and weeds, and maintain soil organic matter. They can reduce compaction and increase water infiltration which decreases leaching of nutrients. Cover crops retain and recycle plant nutrients (especially nitrogen) between crops, provide habitat for beneficial microorganisms, and increase plant diversity.

A cover crop is planted in late summer or fall to provide soil cover during the winter. Often a legume is chosen for the added benefit of nitrogen fixation. In Minnesota, the plant selected needs to possess enough cold tolerance to survive hard winters. Hairy vetch and rye are among the few selections that meet this need.

Source: Natural Resources Conservation Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture