PAGE 68 / 102

Unit 2: Applying Ecological Principles

(Tim McCabe, USDA NRCS)

Deciding Which Tillage System is Best. Agroecosystem managers look at many different factors when making decisions about tillage practices for their farm or ranch. Key considerations in developing a tillage system that fits their situation are:

• the type of cropping system and crop rotation,

• soil characteristics such as drainage, compaction and erodibility,

• nutrient needs and requirements of the crop,

• weed management, and

• equipment needs.

In the final analysis, farmers must weigh the costs and benefits of reduced tillage looking not only at effects on yield, but more holistically at their profit margin. Even though conservation tillage systems may result in lower yields when compared with conventional systems, the savings from reduced energy and labor costs may generate a comparable, or perhaps better, bottom line overall.