New Soil Cover Deadlines Reshape Farming Practices Nationwide
New soil cover rules are now in place for farms across the country. The regulations set clear deadlines for different crop types and soil conditions. Farmers must ensure their fields meet these requirements to avoid penalties.
For late winter sowing and cover crops, full soil cover must be established by November 15. This means the entire field area must be protected by that date. Early summer crops allow more flexibility, with soil cover permitted between September 15 and November 15.
Fields with heavy soils or those planned for early summer crops next year can delay cover until January 15. However, on such land, the minimum requirement can also be met starting in early October. Every farm must now maintain soil cover on at least 80% of its fields from November 15, 2023, to January 15, 2024. Acceptable cover includes winter crops, cover crops, perennial plants, stubble breaks, mulch layers, and protective fleece or film. Lighter soils previously had a separate rule requiring at least 20% of the area to be covered with intermediate crops or undersown plants during the same period to prevent erosion.
The updated rules aim to reduce soil erosion and improve land management. Farms must adjust their planting schedules to comply with the new deadlines. Failure to meet these requirements could result in enforcement action from agricultural authorities.
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