Innovative Conservation Practice Grants
Harvestable Buffers:
Harvestable buffers are vegetated strips that are typically located at the edge of farm fields. The cool season grasses growing in them prevent phosphorus and sediment runoff from entering streams, lakes, wetlands and other sensitive areas. Installing harvestable buffers is a great option for Manitowoc County farmers who are looking to protect surface water while keeping land in production. These buffers help make low lands more productive and provide another source of forage.
Landowners have the option to enroll in the harvestable buffer program for 5, 10, or 15 years, and the incentive payments increase the longer each acre is in the program.
5 Years = $175
10 Years = $200
15 Years = $225
Interseeding Alfalfa into Corn Silage:
Interseeding Alfalfa into corn silage is another way to stabilize soil, and get a jump start on alfalfa growth the following spring. In this system, corn and alfalfa are planted at about the same time. Once the corn is harvested, the goal is to have a good stand of alfalfa to provide ground cover in the fall and winter, and to quickly bring alfalfa into full production the following spring. Manitowoc County is looking for several farms to try out the practice and see if it’s a viable option for this region.
$100 payment per acre 5-20 acres
Cover Crop and Corn Silage: Interseeding cover crops into corn silage is one way to introduce highly productive species to cover the soil and reduce erosion potential. In this practice corn is planted first and the cover crop is planted at the V4-V8 corn stage. Commonly used species in corn interseeding include cereal rye and clover species. Producers can receive $100/Acre up to 20 Acres.
To sign up, complete the Interest Form or call 920-683-4183