Crop productivity and nitrogen dynamics were evaluated using biomass samples taken from the cover crops in fall and spring. Soil mineral nitrogen content was also quantified. The results of 2019 and 2020 trials showed all cover crop treatments had statistically or numerically greater yields than the no cover treatment. This was also consistent with previous research. “The positive effects of long-term cover cropping were attributed to better soil health and greater soil organic matter. With greater soil organic matter, it’s expected plants will have more available nitrogen and water in a dry growing season,” explains Chahal. Additional benefits were observed in crop responses to stress when, in 2020, which was dry until mid-July, trial grain corn yield was up to 59 bu/ac greater with long-term cover cropping (10 times in 13 years) than the no cover crop control. This research demonstrates the resiliency to weather stress with the improved soil health generated by cover crops. RESEARCH APPLICATION The results of the study confirmed the positive influences of cover crops on soil health and crop yield. The research was able to measure and quantify the benefits cover crops provide, including increased nitrogen, carbon storage and economic payoffs. “The trial is well designed and has demonstrated that cover crop-induced improvements in soil health can occur in the medium-term (planting cover crops six times in eight years),” says Chahal, who reminds farmers that the research is showing longterm benefits of cover crops are proving to pay off faster than they may think. “The adoption of cover crops does pay off, and we’re working hard to find relatable information to increase more acres.” Ontario farmers can directly benefit from the availability of research results like this study that demonstrates and quantifies the benefits of cover crops on yield, soil health and economics. Chahal says the next step is to determine just how cover crops are able to achieve these benefits, exploring just what happens in the soil to improve or retain nitrogen, soil health and crop yield. These questions will be part of future study, building on the results of this project in an effort to provide relatable results and information to Ontario growers, and ultimately increase the adoption of cover crops. Dr. Laura Van Eerd is the principal research lead on this project. This project is funded by the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a five-year investment by Canada’s federal, provincial and territorial governments. l ONTARIO GRAIN FARMER 13 FEBRUARY 2022 continued on page xx This research project received funding from Grain Farmers of Ontario. WHY MAKE CFFO YOUR FBR CHOICE? KEEPING FAITH IN FARMING Listening to your concerns since 1954 Access to expert advice A Christian voice on Ontario farm policy Great exclusive CFFO Member benefits Over $10,000 in scholarships Property tax reductions Farm license plates Eligibility for government compensation programs Visit Agricorp.com/FBR to register, and choose CFFO for your Accredited Farm Organization. Farmland Preservation Water Stewardship Soil Health Farmer Mental Health www.christianfarmers.org CHRISTIAN FARMERS Federation Of Ontario CFFO Agri-food Sector Success
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