The Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) Soil Health Field Day was hosted by Matagorda County Soil and Water Conservation District and BCI in El Maton, Texas, on October 19, 2022. The event, attended by SHI Soil Health Educator Jessica Kelton and Soil Scientist Dianna Bagnall, and around 25 growers and consultants, focused on the region’s significant cotton production, an opportunity to expand utilization of cover crops, and minimal tillage practices. The field day highlighted a grower who has been successful in incorporating reduced tillage and cover crops into his operation. The grower also planted carinata as a winter cash crop on 80 acres. Known for its high residue, carinata presents a viable option for regional growers to maintain continuous living roots in their soil, potentially offering an additional revenue stream.
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