MARBLE ROCK, Iowa — Whether it’s machinery, soil fertility or weed control, no-till farming can be a challenge for newcomers. But the technique also has the potential to offer many benefits, from improved soil health to less time and money spent on labor and fuel.
Marble Rock farmer Dennis Carney has become an expert in reaping the benefits of no-till practices.
The Carney farm was an early adopter of no-till 35 years ago. The fifth-generation family grain farm has always been non-GMO, and for the past four years has used aerially applied cover crops on 100 percent of its acres.
Carney also has 450 acres of land enrolled in the Conservation Reserve Program using a variety of practices, including those that foster habitat for upland game, pollinators and forests.
He will share his experience with no-till and cover crops at a Practical Farmers of Iowa field day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 6 on his farm, 2790 Jersey Ave., about 2 miles southeast of Marble Rock.
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"Cover Crops and On-Farm Conservation" is free and will include lunch.
RSVPs are appreciated for the meal to Debra Boekholder, debra@practicalfarmers.org or (515) 232-5661, by Sept. 3.
