July 2, 2024
An ongoing research project with UMN’s Water Resources Center evaluates cover crop approaches that may lead to cost savings for producers and a reduction in environmental impacts. In a story posted on the Center’s website on June 28, researchers report on several scenarios studied to determine how various approaches might reduce nitrate leaching on sandy farm fields. According to early results, the use of Kura Clover as a living mulch cut leaching by as much as 60%. The use of Kura Clover also helps reduce nitrous oxide emissions, a particularly harmful greenhouse gas. The research by the Water Resource Center, one of 21 Consortium Member Centers, is helping expand the toolkit for farmers as they compete on a global scale.