Ohio farmers are increasingly turning to cover crops as a proven way to improve soil health, reduce erosion, and increase crop yields. Cover crops, such as clover, rye, and radishes, provide crucial benefits by preventing nutrient runoff, suppressing weeds, and enhancing soil moisture retention. As climate variability intensifies, these crops offer farmers a resilient tool to maintain productivity.
Cover crops help reduce soil erosion and improve soil structure by keeping the ground covered year-round. Their deep roots break up compacted soil while enhancing water infiltration and retention, which reduce the risk of flooding and drought damage. Legumes such as clover and vetch can fix atmospheric nitrogen, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. Additionally, cover crops capture leftover nutrients in the soil, preventing them from washing into nearby streams and improving water quality. By outcompeting weeds and disrupting pest life cycles, cover crops lessen farmers’ reliance on herbicides and pesticides. This cuts costs and supports beneficial insects like pollinators.
The USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Ohio is committed to helping farmers implement cover cropping practices through several financial and technical assistance programs. One of the most popular is the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), which provides cost-sharing for planting cover crops. Through EQIP, farmers can receive guidance on selecting appropriate cover crop species, planting methods, and termination strategies.
Another valuable resource is the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), which rewards farmers already using conservation practices while encouraging them to adopt additional measures, including cover cropping. This program supports long-term commitments to soil health improvement. Local NRCS offices across Ohio also offer personalized support, including soil testing and on-farm evaluations. Many Ohio counties partner with Soil and Water Conservation Districts to expand outreach and connect farmers with workshops and field demonstrations. Find your local office at https://www.farmers.gov/working-with-us/service-center-locator.
As Ohio’s agricultural sector faces evolving environmental challenges, cover crops supported by NRCS programs and local Soil and Water Conservation Districts provide a win-win solution for farmers and the environment alike.
The mission of the Madison Soil and Water Conservation District is to enhance and sustain the soil, water and related natural resources of Madison County through partnerships with landowners and others to provide research-based educational programs, technical assistance, and funding to promote a clean local environment. More information about our services, conserving natural resources, and events is available at www.madisonsoilandwater.com, or call our office at 740-852-4003 and ask for Broc Sehen-Wildlife Specialist.
Julia Cumming, Program Administrator
Broc Sehen, Wildlife Specialist
740-852-4003
London, Ohio 43140
