Drought conditions in the Midwest highlight the importance of resilient farming practices. Methods like living covers, diverse crop rotations, and drought-resistant crops can help create resilient production systems, especially when combined with organic certification. Organic farming offers profit opportunities for Wisconsin's farmers, promoting resilience and opening doors to expanded markets.
The UW Organic Agriculture Field Day on August 31 will focus on enhancing soil health and resilience in organic systems. Research at the Arlington Agricultural Research Station shows that adding cover crops to corn and soybean rotations can build soil organic matter, reducing the need for tilling and cultivation. This approach helps maintain healthy soils, crucial for resilience.
Presentations will highlight research on organic cereal grains and varieties adapted to organic systems. Breeding crop varieties for organic farmers' needs and unique environments is crucial for success. Updates on organic no-till corn, soybeans, and sunflowers will also be shared, showcasing different cover crops and planting options.
Researchers conduct these projects on certified organic land at UW research stations or working organic farms with input from organic producers. The organic market is growing, with demand exceeding supply. Wisconsin, known for its organic expertise, is well-positioned to contribute to this expanding market opportunity, which surpassed $60 billion in 2022.
The UW Organic Agriculture Field Day will explore practical methods to improve soil health, crop resilience, and organic farming practices, benefiting farmers and the growing organic market.
The registration table at the UW Organic Agriculture Field Day will open at 9:15 a.m. on Aug. 31. Lunch will be available around noon. Registration can be found at https://ograin.cals.wisc.edu/ograin-events/2023-ograin-field-days/
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Categories: Wisconsin, General