PFI: Expanding Cover Crop Impact: Seed Production and Reduced Inputs

Chad and Wendy Petersen raise corn, soybeans and cattle near Bennett, Iowa. They practice minimum tillage and use cover crops on their own farm, and they appreciate seeing more farmers integrating soil health practices. Chad and Wendy are passionate about expanding cover crops on the landscape: In addition to using cover crops on their own farm, they also run a cover crop seeding business, Venture Ag.

Recently, the Petersens began looking at their fertilizer use. This focus has enabled them to reduce their applied phosphorus and nitrogen by 25%. Chad is eager to share how these strategies are helping the couple achieve their stewardship goals while maintaining yields and economic resilience. At this field day, we’ll also see a field of rye going to seed for the farm’s cover crop use come fall.