By Andi Anderson
Applications are now live for the Cover Crop Premium Discount Program, aimed at boosting additional cover crop cultivation in Indiana. Hoosier farmers stand to gain a significant five-dollar reduction per acre on crop insurance premiums by participating in this initiative, pioneered by the Indiana State Department of Agriculture.
Trevor Laureys, Director of the Division of Soil Conservation, emphasizes the program's goal of introducing cover crops to newcomers in the farming community. "We're encouraging farmers to embrace cover crops, reducing the risks associated with trying something new," he explained. Highlighting the benefits, Laureys noted, "Cover crops bolster soil health by enhancing water retention and increasing water infiltration."
Adherence to best agronomic practices in terms of seeding rates, seed mixes, and seeding dates is pivotal for the success of the cover crop. Laureys mentioned that field staff conducts random spot checks on about 10% of enrolled acres to ensure compliance.
However, the program's availability is limited to 26 out of 92 counties in Indiana due to the nature of funding from a Clean Water Indiana grant and the Cummins Foundation.
Entering its fourth year, the program has shown promise. Last year, 117 farmers participated, planting over 35,000 acres of cover crops in the watershed. The state aims to drive this success further by incentivizing farmers to plant an additional 30,000 acres of cover crops this year.
To seize this opportunity, farmers can apply through the ISDA website until March 15th or until funds are exhausted.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-mvburling
Categories: Indiana, Crops