A cover crop tour of the Sacramento Valley in California is being hosted by the Western Cover Crop Council and University of California Cooperative Extension on March 3.

The event will help growers understand how they can incorporate cover crops in their farms, and the benefits they have in some systems.

The day-long event starts at the Colusa County UCCE Office. From there, participants will view orchards and annual crops in several valley locations where several cover crop species and mixes will be showcased.

Farmers, extension specialists and researchers will share their perspectives on cover crops.

“The goal of this tour is to demonstrate ways to use cover crops effectively in annual crops and orchards in the Sacramento Valley,” UCCE agronomy advisor Sarah Light said in a release. “This tour will cover a range of topics, including cover crop selection, equipment needed to manage cover crops, considerations for cover cropping in the region, and the importance of building soil health."

Participants will meet at the Colusa UCCE office, 100 Sunrise Blvd., Suite E, Colusa, at 7:45 a.m. A tour bus will load and depart at 8 a.m.

There is a limit of 60 farmers, ranchers, and producers for the event. Priority will be given to farmers and ranchers; if there is space after today, Feb. 1, others may join.

Cost is $50 and includes refreshments, transportation, lunch, and dinner. Register online or call Julia Kalika at 530-750-1361 for more information.