Cover Crops

All Cover Crops Content

Two examples of cover crops growing in research plots.
Oct 16

Cover Crop Field Day

SDSU Extension will host a Cover Crop Field Day at the SDSU Northeast Research Farm (15710 455th Ave., South Shore, SD 57263) on Thursday, October 16, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. CDT.

oats

Cover Crops

The benefits of planting cover crops are numerous. 

aerial view of South Dakota farm and surrounding land

Crops

During the growing season, SDSU Extension provides weekly production recommendations.

Rye test plots

Rye Variety Trial Results

2025 Rye Variety Trial Results in South Dakota.

Rye growing in in a no-till field.

Effects of Different Cereal Rye and Winter Camelina Seeding Rates on Biomass Production and Soil Properties When Broadcast Seeded

Benefits to soil health generally increase as cover crop biomass production increases. Recent research sought to determine how the seeding rate of two cover crop species and mixtures affected biomass production and some soil health indicators.

Field showing sheet and rill erosion following a heavy rain event.

Soil Erosion Mitigation During Heavy Rainfall Events

Adopting soil health practices that minimize disturbance, increase surface cover and organic matter content, and keep roots growing in the soil can help to increase soil infiltration rates and reduce destruction of soil aggregates from heavy rain.

A tall, grassy warm-season cover crop blend grown in South Dakota.

Alternative Forage Options During Dry Times

Although there are many factors to take into consideration, annual forages and cover crops can be an excellent tool to boost forage production, reduce fallow acres, and enhance soil health.

several plots of alfalfa

Alfalfa Variety Trial Results

Progress reports for alfalfa variety trials

A red tractor and seed drill planting in a no-till field.

Project to Study Soil Health Economics in South Dakota

Soil degradation has become one of the most pressing global issues, because of its adverse effects on world food security, environment and quality of life.

A lush field with corn, soybean, and forage rotation.

Crop Rotation Potential: Improving Soil Health & Farm Profitability

Two-year corn-soybean rotation coupled with heavy chemical inputs has become the routine practice of agricultural production in the Midwestern United States. According to USDA/NASS data, corn and soybean prices received by producers in South Dakota both reached the peak levels of $7.39 and $16.00 per bushel, respectively, in August, 2012.