Illinois Grazing Lands Coalition President Cliff Schuette says a growing interest in cover crops is a chance to integrate livestock into row crop farming. Cover crops improve soil health, provide livestock nutrition and enhance feed supply.

Schuette notes their value extends into fall and winter, offering grazing options well into January. However, farmers face challenges in bringing livestock back to the farm. Many fences have been removed over the years, and it can be costly to install water infrastructure.

The USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service offers support to assist farmers with infrastructure upgrades. The Coalition will explore these issues at its second annual Grazing Conference on March 11-12 in Springfield, Illinois.

Read more on how cover crops present an opportunity for livestock operations here.