Cover Crops Grow In Popularity, But Not Everyone Can Afford Them

Liz Gray Snack, owner of Happy Hollow Farm in Missouri, discusses the challenges and benefits of using cover crops to improve soil health and combat climate change. Despite limited space and weather extremes, cover crops help reduce erosion and capture carbon. However, less than 10% of US cropland uses them. Companies like General Mills and Wrangler are promoting their use. Alternatives like compost are more expensive but necessary. Weather extremes, such as excessive rain, complicate farming, highlighting the need for adaptive practices.

What is one of the main benefits of using cover crops on small farms like Happy Hollow Farm?

• They increase the amount of land available for farming.

• They help reduce soil erosion and improve soil nutrients.

• They are harvested for additional produce.

• They require no maintenance.

Which companies are encouraging the use of cover crops among farmers?

• Automobile companies like Ford

• Food companies like General Mills

• Pharmaceutical companies like Pfizer

• Tech companies like Apple

How do cover crops contribute to fighting climate change?

• By capturing carbon from the atmosphere

• By eliminating the need for fertilizers

• By increasing the temperature of the soil

• By reducing the need for water

What is a major challenge faced by farmers in Missouri due to weather conditions?

• Frequent droughts

• High winds damaging crops

• Excessive rain making fields too wet

• Lack of sunlight

What solution does Liz Gray Snack use to manage excessive rain on her farm?

• Installing drainage systems

• Building dams

• Planting more trees

• Using high tunnels