Think DifferentThinking about corn stover harvest?Evaluate each field separately for residue harvest sustainability. Stover removal is not an option on every field, says USDA-ARS Soil Scientist Jane Johnson. “On erodible land, don’t even think about it!”Consult erosion and soil carbon index tools from NRCS before you make a decision. Stover harvest will be most feasible for producers achieving high yields with continuous-corn systems.Maintain a strong fertility testing and nutrient management program.Reduce or eliminate tillage and employ other soil conservation practices.Add a perennial or cover crop to your rotation.Sources: Jane Johnson, USDA-ARS North Central Soil Conservation Lab, Douglas Karlen, USDA-ARS National Laboratory for Agriculture and the Environment 

byLiz Morrison 1