Tile Spacing Results on Taintor and Kalona Soils

In 1999, a 45-acre tile spacing project was installed adjacent to the Southeast Research Farm. This was done through donations by local drainage contractors, tile companies, and with assistance from the staff at the Southeast Research Farm. The goal was to compare recommended tile spacing (75 ft) with closer tile spacings

Tile Spacing Results

In 1999, a 45-acre tile spacing project was installed adjacent to the Southeast Research Farm. This was done through donations by local drainage contractors, tile companies, and with assistance from the staff at the Southeast Research Farm. The goal was to compare recommended tile spacing (75 ft) with closer tile spacings

Conservation Tillage Study

The project goal was to compare yields of three different tillage systems on a sloping, moderately well-drained soil (Nira), and on a nearly level, poorly-drained soil (Kalona) in a continuous corn and a corn-soybean system. These plots were started in 1990 and have continued to the present

Long-Term Conservation Tillage Study

The project goal is to compare yields of three different tillage systems on a sloping, moderately well drained soil (Nira) and on a nearly level, poorly drained soil (Kalona) in a continuous corn and a corn-soybean system. This study was begun in 1990 using no-till, ridge-till, and chisel-disk tillage systems. Results for 1990–1994 were previously reported

Native Grass Establishment Demonstration Plots

Current CRP programs have emphasized the use of warm-season native grasses. In the early 1990s a variety trial of different species and varieties of native grasses was established by the NRCS staff at the Southeast Research and Demonstration Farm. These plots have been very useful for landowners to see the growth characteristics of the different varieties. However, landowners have had many questions about what a seeding should look like during the establishment years. The project goal was to compare different seeding times and weed control methods in the establishment of native grasses

Conservation Tillage Study

The project goal was to compare yields of three different tillage systems on a sloping, moderately well drained soil (Nira) and on a nearly level, poorly drained soil (Kalona) in a continuous corn and a corn-soybean system. The plots began in 1990

Drainage design for improved profits and water quality

Subsurface drainage systems are an important component of agricultural production systems in many areas of Iowa. However, these drainage systems have been shown to deliver nitrate-N to downstream waterbodies. So, while subsurface drainage is important for crop production we also need to consider the design of these systems to minimize nitrate-N loss. Use of drainage water management in the design and operation of subsurface drainage systems is one potential method to reduce nitrate-N loss

Swine Manure Nitrogen Availability and Carryover

Swine manure is readily available in Iowa and is an excellent source of fertilizer for crops. Application rates are often based on the nitrogen (N) needs of the coming year’s crop. Producers often ask how much N is available the first year, and if any N carries over to subsequent years