Current methods of quantifying crop residue cover are inadequate for characterizing the spatial variability of residue cover and soil tillage intensity across many fields.� Our objectives were to estimate crop residue cover and soil tillage intensity using satellite hyperspectral data.� Hyperion imaging spectrometer data were acquired over agricultural fields in central Iowa in May 2004 and 2005. �Crop residue cover was measured in corn and soybean fields using line-point transects.� Crop residue cover was linearly related to the cellulose absorption index (CAI) with coefficients of determination (r²) of 0.85 in 2004 and 0.69 in 2005.� Three tillage intensity classes, corresponding to intensive (<15% residue cover), reduced (15-30% cover), and conservation (>30% cover) tillage, were correctly identified in 63-68% of fields.� Classification accuracy increased to 68-82% for two classes, corresponding to conventional (intensive + reduced) and conservation tillage.� Inventories of soil tillage intensity by previous crop type were generated for the whole Hyperion scene in each year.� Regional surveys of soil management practices that affect soil conservation and soil C dynamics are possible using advanced multispectral or hyperspectral imaging systems.