Cover Crops and Soil Health - Learn at Van Wychen Farms

By Blake Jackson

On April 16th, Van Wychen Farms in Kaukauna, Wisconsin, will host an event designed to equip farmers with strategies for the potentially challenging 2025 planting season.

Attendees will enjoy a complimentary lunch of assorted pizzas and refreshments, followed by a series of expert presentations.

At 12:20 PM, Kevin Jarek, Regional Crops & Soils Educator from UW-Madison Division of Extension, will discuss the impact of rising input costs on crop enterprise budget profit potential.

Jarek will present the latest projected returns for key Wisconsin crops, including corn, soybeans, winter wheat, and alfalfa, providing crucial insights as farmers finalize their planting decisions.

At 12:45 PM, Dr. Paul Mitchell, Professor of Agricultural and Applied Economics at UW-Madison, will offer a farm market and policy update.

Dr. Mitchell, known for his ability to translate complex agricultural policies and market trends into practical information, will address the uncertainties facing farmers and answer pressing questions about the current agricultural landscape.

At 1:30 PM, Chris Bandura, Conservation Cropping Outreach Specialist from UW-Madison Division of Extension, will explore the benefits of legume cover crops for soil protection and economic savings.

Bandura will also discuss the Berseem Clover Cover Crop Plot at Van Wychen Farms, established in August 2024, and its role in the Nitrogen Optimization Pilot Project (NOPP).

This project, involving multiple farms across Wisconsin, aims to determine the nitrogen credit available to corn crops following cover crop planting.

Attendees will have the opportunity to visit the research plot, weather permitting, and learn firsthand about the impact of cover crops.

The event will provide valuable information for farmers considering cover crops and those looking to optimize their cover cropping systems. Chris Bandura, Kevin Jarek, and Scott Ruess are working to provide data on nitrogen credits, a common question among farmers.

This event offers Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) Continuing Education Units (CEUs). It's a prime opportunity for farmers to gain insights into crop economics, market trends, and sustainable farming practices, all while enjoying a community atmosphere at Van Wychen Farms.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-mvburling