Wright County Stripcropping Field Day

Wright Soil and Water Conservation District and University of Minnesota Extension are planning a field day at David Neske’s farm highlighting soil health practices he has implemented. Join us to see how intercropping of corn and soybeans, no-till, and a modified ridge-till system influence soil health and “bugs” above and below ground. The free field day and dinner will be hosted on Thursday, August 15 from 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm at Dave Neske’s farm at 2562 2nd St SW in Buffalo. Follow Extension Event signs to the field day location. 

This field day will be a great opportunity to see how intercropping of corn and soybeans can work to introduce more diversity in a field. Dave has planted alternating 8 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. There will be a demonstration looking 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. 

This free field day will include discussion on how soil health practices impact soil life and nutrient cycling, demonstration of corn and soybean intercropping, and a discussion of equipment needs in no-till and conservation tillage systems. This event will include a complimentary dinner so please RSVP to get an estimate of meals required by contacting Wright SWCD at 763-682-1933 ext. 3.