Cover Crop Decision Making Tool
by Michael Langemeier
This spreadsheet can be used to examine whether it is beneficial to use a cover crop. Information needed to examine this decision includes the following: change in crop yields, crop price, cover crop seed cost, planting cost for cover crops, cover crop termination cost, fertilizer savings, and other costs changes such as a change in herbicide costs, or savings associated with soil health.
The addition of cover crops to a farm’s agricultural system can have significant impacts on the bottom line of the business. Despite strong agronomic evidence of the positive impact cover crops have on soil health, farmers are often hesitant to adopt cover crops. Learn more on Cover Crops And Farm Profitability In Central Indiana in our companion research article.
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Join educators from across the Midwest to build skills for communicating soil health concepts on Nov. 4-5, 2026. In the field, we’ll evaluate the relationship between soil health and water management focusing on irrigation and edge of field practices. The in-service will have both classroom and on farm demonstrations.
The Land of Opportunity: A Conference for Farmland Owners will be held at two locations on October 5 and October 6, providing farmland owners with valuable information and resources to help them make informed decisions about their land. The conference will feature keynote presentations, educational breakout sessions, and networking opportunities designed specifically for those who own, manage, or have an interest in farmland.