Conservation and farming seems like two completely foreign subjects to those of us that are not in fields or raising livestock. Interestingly, both can and in some cases should go hand in hand. Not only for the benefit of the farmer and his wallet but for the land management practices that benefit everyone involved. Travis Meteer, University of Illinois Extension Educator for Commercial Agriculture, tells about precision conservation management or ‘PCM.’ Meteer discusses how cattle producers specifically might be able to utilize these practices, while giving a detailed breakdown of his studies.

With cover crops, beef cattle feed and the purchase of it, could be erased from your budget. Meteer gives an idea on what cover crops can fit in your rotation and how the harvesting of them can be done.

Meteer says that for many, cover crops can actually net savings while sustaining nutrients for that next staple crop.

For more on Precision Conservation Management, visit www.extension.illinois.edu.

Travis Meteer appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show when we visited the Dudley Smith Farm Winter Meeting, held at the Christian County Extension Office.