Farm Demonstration Networks Promote Cover Crop Adoption

A new study from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign showed the effectiveness of farm demonstration networks in driving cover crop adoption. Implementation of a Wisconsin farm demonstration program correlated with a 50% increase in cover crop adoption over baseline levels within just four years, achieving more success than cost-share and incentive payments to farmers. The study also revealed that proximity made a difference: the highest levels of cover crop adoption were in areas near a demonstration farm. Adoption rates began increasing the year after the demonstration began and peaked after four years of the demonstration program’s operation.

Related ATTRA publication: Grazing Networks for Livestock Producers