On-farm research: Can a rye cover crop reduce wind erosion after sugarbeet?

By: Mehmet Ozturk, UMN research assistant; Anna Cates, Extension soil health specialist; & Lindsay Pease, Extension water and nutrient management specialist

After harvesting sugarbeets, a major crop in west-central and northwest Minnesota, beet residue decomposes rapidly, leaving exposed soil vulnerable to the high winds that characterize the area. In a recent on-farm study, we looked at whether an overwintering cereal rye cover crop, drilled after sugarbeet harvest, can prevent soil loss. We worked with two farmers in Polk and Renville counties. Cover crops prevented the worst of the erosion in the windy, open 2023-24 winter in Polk County.

Learn about the study results, and reducing wind erosion in Minnesota with cover crops, in this interactive StoryMap: z.umn.edu/WindStory

For more on cover crop options after beets, see our recent blog post.

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