Strength in Straw: Making the Most of a Rye Crop

Tom and Robin Cummings operate TRC Farms near Redfield, Iowa, growing cereal rye, soybeans and hay. Their journey growing rye started about 12 years ago when a neighbor asked Tom to help harvest the rye for a portion of the seed, which Tom decided to continue growing. That pivotal moment brought the Cummings to where they are today. Working together, and with help from family and neighbors, they harvest and clean rye for cover crop seed and produce up to 40,000 square bales per year to sell at Bomgaars and Tractor Supply stores in their area. They credit their market success to hard work, creativity and relationship-building.

At their field day, Robin and Tom will showcase their seed-cleaning and straw-baling operations. They’re also eager to share how teff grass is finding its place in their rotations.