Wright County stripcropping field day

Join Wright Soil and Water Conservation District and University of Minnesota Extension for a field day at David Neske’s farm where we will learn about the soil health practices he uses. See how intercropping of corn and soybeans, no-till, and a modified ridge-till system influence soil health and “bugs” above and below ground.

This field day will be a great opportunity to see how the intercropping of corn and soybeans can work to introduce more diversity in a field. Dave has planted alternating rows of corn and beans and participants can see how his management affects the below-ground microbial life and the above-ground beneficial insects and pests. Intercropping of corn and soybeans has also been shown to reduce the need for nitrogen fertilizer, saving money on inputs.

We will look at the soil under a microscope to see mycorrhizal fungi and soil microbes that are key to crop nutrient uptake. Dave also has experience with no-till and ridge-till, so come with questions about how he has modified his equipment and practices for conservation tillage.