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Cover Crops

All Cover Crops Content

aerial view of South Dakota farm and surrounding land

Crops

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

Aerial view of the SDSU Southeast Research Farm.
Jan 06 - 07

Southeast Research Farm Seminars @ Dakota Farm Show

Join SDSU Extension for a series of educational presentations during the Dakota Farm Show from January 6-7, 2026, at the USD DakotaDome (1101 N Dakota St, Vermillion, SD 57069).

Oats growing in a no-till field.

Comparing Cover Crop Mixture Performance after Oats and its Effect on Corn Yield the Following Year

A research trial completed at the South Dakota Agricultural Experiment Station Northeast Research Farm comparing cover crop mixture performance after oats and its effect on corn yield the following year.

shovel with a clump of dirt with a green plant and root system

Effect of Camelina Cover Crop on Soil Health and Corn Yield

Study results focused on the effect of camelina cover crop on soil health and corn yield.

oats

Cover Crops

The benefits of planting cover crops are numerous. 

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