Ohio Agricultural Cover Crop Benefits

Cover crops protect soil from erosion increase organic matter enhance nutrient retention and provide habitat for beneficial insects and ground nesting birds.

Soil Structure And Water Infiltration

Root systems of cover crops improve soil structure increase infiltration and reduce runoff during heavy rains.

Nutrient Cycling And Reduced Losses

Cover crops scavenge residual nutrients reducing leaching and improving nutrient use efficiency for subsequent cash crops.

Biodiversity And Pest Management

Flowering cover crops support pollinators and natural enemies of pests contributing to integrated pest management.

Implementation And Farmer Support

Technical assistance and incentive programs encourage adoption of cover crops and demonstrate long term agronomic and ecological benefits.