2015
Interpreting the contribution of cover crops to soil health and crop productivity
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Contributor/Checkoff:
Iowa Soybean Association
Category:
Sustainable Production
Keywords:
Field management Nutrient managementSoil healthTillageYield trials
Parent Project:
This is the first year of this project.
Lead Principal Investigator:
Alison Robertson, Iowa State University
Co-Principal Investigators:
Larry J Halverson, (not specified)
Gwyn Beattie, Iowa State University
Leonor Leandro, Iowa State University
+2 More
Project Code:
Contributing Organization (Checkoff):
Iowa Soybean Association
(n/a)
Institution Funded:
Iowa State University
(n/a)
Brief Project Summary:

The extent to which cover crops benefit crop yields may vary with soil and climatic factors, as their decomposition can release or immobilize nitrogen. An improved understanding of these factors and their effect on yield response is needed. The long-term goal of this research project is to elucidate the effects of cover crops on soil health and the root microbiome to better exploit the benefits of cover crops and predict their impact on soybean yield. Research conducted in soybean fields also evaluates the impact of cover crops on stand establishment, prevalence of diseases and root health in cover crop strip trials.

Key Benefactors:
farmers, agronomists, Extension agents

Information And Results
Project Deliverables

Our proposed research will positively impact Iowa and Midwest soybean growers by advancing knowledge on the effect of cover crops on soybean and corn yield, specifically, how improved soil and plant health increase productivity.

Data will be shared with ISA and growers through ISU Extension and On-Farm Network events, Integrated Crop Management News (extension.iastate.edu/CropNews/), project progress reports, and ISA Communications.

Final Project Results

Update:
See attached final report

View uploaded report Word file

The United Soybean Research Retention policy will display final reports with the project once completed but working files will be purged after three years. And financial information after seven years. All pertinent information is in the final report or if you want more information, please contact the project lead at your state soybean organization or principal investigator listed on the project.