Scaling Up National Cover Crop Seed Supplies Through Research

Added 3 months ago

Researchers nationwide are working to develop cover crop varieties that are better suited to regional environments.

Etienne Sutton, Program Manager at the University of Missouri’s Centre for Regenerative Agriculture, leads the National Cover Crop Variety Development Project.

“We have a team collaborating with the cover crop seed industry to improve contract seed production with farmers and enhance marketing strategies for different cover crop species and varieties, ultimately strengthening the cover crop seed industry,” Sutton explains.

She notes that rising demand from incentive programs has put pressure on seed supplies, and the project aims to boost domestic production.

“If you check many cover crop seed websites right now, you’ll find they’re out of stock,” she says. “We recognise the urgent need to scale up production. Our project will offer trainings and workshops to help farmers integrate seed production into their operations.”

As part of their early research, the Cover Crop Breeding Network has already released improved varieties of hairy vetch, crimson clover, and winter peas. Studies on cereal rye and winter canola are ongoing in collaboration with farmers and universities.

Sutton spoke with Brownfield during the recent Great Lakes Crop Summit in Mount Pleasant, Michigan.