Daviess County farmers looking to increase the productivity of their ground may want to take a look at the Daviess County Soil and Water Conservation District's cover crop cost share program.
"This is our fourth year for the program," said Kevin Allison, conservation and livestock technician with Daviess County Soil and Water. "We are offering a flat rate of $18 per acre for up to 50 acres of seed expense."
Allison said that 75 percent of the reimbursement will be made after the seeding is complete and seed tags and receipts have been received, and the other 25 percent will be reimbursed after participants attend an approved soil health or cover crop workshop in the fall or spring.
"We will have workshops locally and regionally," said Allison. "And the program isn't just for grain crop production. Ground in produce is also eligible to apply."
Cover crops provide a variety of benefits including weed, disease and nematode suppression and help improve water filtration, and alleviate soil compaction. Some common cover crops include hairy vetch, crimson clover, and winter radishes among others.
Growers will be responsible for the remaining cost of their seed expense, transportation and application. While funds for the program are limited, Allison said that applications may be prioritized based on rankings of the questionnaire and the date that the application is received.
In addition to filling out the application, cost-share recipients will be working with the soil and water conservation district to develop a cover crop mix to meet management goals and wheat is not accepted. All seeding must meet specifications set by the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
Allison said additional funding is available for many cover crops as well and that more information on the program as well as cover crops in general is available online at www.daviesscoswcd.org or by contacting Allison at 812-254-4780. The deadline to register is Aug. 31.