In the fall after crop harvest, some farmers perform what is known as “recreational tillage.” Like the name indicates, this activity is largely a family tradition or just something to do. But soil experts are trying to shift farmers to reduced tillage or even no tillage. A less disturbed soil is a healthier soil.
Illinois has over 20 million acres in corn and soybean production. Once these crops are harvested, the fields usually have only crop residue to protect them from the erosive forces of winter’s wind, rain, and snowmelt. When soil is tilled in the fall, both the soil and the residue cover are disturbed, leaving the field more prone to erosion. Some farmers have only realized the amount of lost soil when studies have been conducted on their farm.
When soil is eroded by water, it moves with runoff into nearby rivers and lakes. Unfortunately, sedimentation is one of the leading causes of degraded waterways in Illinois. Too much sediment fills in the habitat preferred by aquatic species like mussels and fish. Sediment is also filling up public drinking water supplies like Lake Vermilion and Lake Decatur.
December 5 is World Soil Day! As human population size increases, so does the demand for cropland and the need to maximize crop production per acre. Protecting soil from erosion is key to ensuring cropland is productive for generations to come, as explained in this video.
Let’s Talk About Soil – English from IASS Vimeo Channel on Vimeo.
