Managing Global Resources for a Secure Future

2017 Annual Meeting | Oct. 22-25 | Tampa, FL

105195 Evaluation of Multiple Species for Use As Cover Crops in Dryland Production in Montana.

Poster Number 1540

See more from this Division: ASA Section: Land Management and Conservation
See more from this Session: Cover Crop Management Poster

Monday, October 23, 2017
Tampa Convention Center, East Exhibit Hall

Kent A. McVay1, Darrin Boss2, Peggy F. Lamb3, Q. A. Khan4, Chengci Chen5, Patrick M. Carr6, Jessica A Torrion7, Zach Miller8, Simon Fordyce9, Julia M. Dafoe3 and Roger Hybner3, (1)748 Railroad Hwy, Montana State University, Huntley, MT
(2)Research Centers, Montana State University, Havre, MT
(3)Research Centers, Northern Agricultural Research Center - Montana State University, Havre, MT
(4)Dept of Research Centers, Montana State University, Huntley, MT
(5)1501 N. Central Ave., Montana State University, Sidney, MT
(6)52583 US Highway 87, Montana State University, Moccasin, MT
(7)Northwestern Agricultural Research Center, Montana State University, Kalispell, MT
(8)Land Resources and Environmental Sciences, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT
(9)Research Centers, Montana State University, Moccasin, MT
Poster Presentation
  • McVayPoster2.pdf (1.7 MB)
  • Abstract:
    A statewide investigation (6 locations) of cover crop species was conducted to determine the best candidates for use in fallow replacement strategies for dryland crop production in Montana to improve soil qualities and provide forage for livestock. Species included 6 grasses, 8 legumes, 6 broadleaves, and 4 polycultures. Crops were planted at two timings, early April and late May, providing opportunity for both cool- and warm-season species to produce maximum growth. Treatments were arranged in randomized complete blocks replicated at each location. All species at both establishment timings were terminated at flowering of the annual grasses within the group. Total above ground biomass (AGB) was determined at termination. Nutrient profiles in terms of crude protein, ADF, NDF, TDN, NEL, NEM, NEG, and nitrate content were determined on subsamples to evaluate feed value. Values for AGB ranged from 0.0 to 4.1 Mg ha-1 with warm season species averaging 1.6 Mg ha-1 while cool season species averaged 1.2 Mg ha-1. Crude protein ranged from 7.8 to 28.1%. Relative feed value ranged from 87 to 231. A detailed summary of statewide results will be presented.

    See more from this Division: ASA Section: Land Management and Conservation
    See more from this Session: Cover Crop Management Poster