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Cover Crops And Crop Residues, Robert L. Blevins

Soil Science News and Views

In Kentucky, erosion hazard is by far the major limitation for use of cropland. It has been estimated that about 11.4 million acres are subject to erosion hazards. This means that approximately 75% of the soils potentially suited for cropland is sloping enough that risk of erosion is the greatest limitation in its use for crop production. Probably the greatest risk of erosion results from leaving row-cropped fields unprotected over winter. The use of cover crops and proper management of crop residues to stablize these soils during the winter months are relatively inexpensive agronomic practices that are very effective in …