In early spring, green patches in farm fields are often cover crops, which help prevent soil erosion and keep nutrients from washing away. One common cover crop, winter cereal rye, survives through winter and is very effective at holding nutrients in the soil. However, it can also use a lot of nitrogen, which may reduce corn yields if not managed carefully, impacting a farmer’s income.
To reduce risk while maintaining environmental benefits, Extension explored winter camelina as an alternative cover crop. Like cereal rye, it survives winter but may have less impact on corn yields. Over three years, Extension partnered with six farmers to plant camelina and cereal rye after soybean harvest, with some areas left unplanted for comparison. Soil sensors measured nitrogen loss, and corn yields were collected to compare results.
After two years, three sites had successful camelina growth. At two sites, neither camelina nor rye reduced corn yields, and both reduced nitrogen loss by about 50 percent. At one site, wheat reduced corn yield by 25 percent, while camelina did not. Overall, camelina shows promise for reducing nitrogen loss without harming yields.
Farmer interest in camelina has grown, especially due to its compatibility with drone planting, which can reduce labor and costs. Outreach efforts, including field days and workshops, have been well attended, and farmers have increased their knowledge and interest in adoption, with some beginning to grow camelina for seed.