A free conference, “Opportunities for Growing and Grazing Cover Crops,” will be held Wednesday, Aug. 9, 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m. during the Lancaster County Super Fair at the Lancaster Event Center, 84th & Havelock in Lincoln, in the Exhibit Hall next to Pavilion 3. Pre-registration is required by Friday, August 4 by going to http://lancaster.unl.edu/ag/covercrops or calling 402-441-7180.

Nebraska Extension, Lancaster County Farm Bureau, Nebraska Corn Board and North Central SARE have teamed up to provide this unique learning and networking opportunity for potential cover crop growers and cattle operators. Lunch will be provided. A reception will follow the event sponsored by Polansky Seed.

The day will feature a trade show, speakers from both public and private organizations, as well as first-hand insight from producers who are using cover crops in Nebraska. Program topics will include:
* tips and opportunities for growing cover crops
* how and when to utilize livestock
* rental rates and partnership agreements
* opportunity to visit and network with related businesses and producers

There are many challenges and opportunities with cover crops, but utilizing cattle to graze cover crops may provide a benefit to both farmers and cattle owners.

President of Lancaster County Farm Bureau Rod Hollman says, “Cover crops can be a way for both livestock producers and grain producers to improve soil health and increase their income. Cover crops can provide extra feed for livestock allowing producers to increase the size of their herds.”

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Beef Systems Specialist Mary Drewnoski says, “Using cattle to graze cover crops is a way to capture extra income while also gaining some environmental benefits.”

For a complete schedule of events at the Lancaster County Super Fair, go to www.SuperFair.org.