Compaction

Cattle grazing cornstalks

Pasture and Forage Minute: Cattle Compaction in Cropland, Pasture Soil Sampling

November 16, 2022
Extension educators address concerns about cropland compaction and reduced yields from grazing crop residues and taking soil samples in pastures and hay fields.

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Cattle on cornstalks

Pasture and Forage Minute: Grazing Corn Residue for Better Crop Yields

November 23, 2021
Nebraska Extension Educator Ben Beckman explains how grazing corn residue at proper stocking rates can lead to better crop yields, plus a review on testing cornstalk bales for nutritional value.

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After recent rains, water stands in the border of this Filmore County soybean field. While wet conditions across much of the state will complicate harvest, taking steps to avoid compaction can reduce the challenges for future crops. (Photo by Brandy VanDeWalle)
Figure 1. After recent rains, water stands in the border of this Filmore County soybean field. While wet conditions across much of the state will complicate harvest, taking steps to avoid compaction can reduce the challenges for future crops. (Photo by Brandy VanDeWalle)

Avoiding Harvest Compaction in Wet Soils

October 10, 2019
With wet soils in many areas and heavy harvest equipment, compaction is likely to develop, affecting crop growth in coming seasons. Taking these 10 steps can help reduce compaction this harvest.

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To avoid compacting more of the field, the grain cart should run down the same row middles as the combine. An auger extension may be needed on the combine to get the wheel tracks to line up. The wheel spacing on the combine, tractor, and grain cart should be adjusted to all run between the rows.
To avoid compacting more of the field, the grain cart should run down the same row middles as the combine. An auger extension may be needed on the combine to get the wheel tracks to line up. The wheel spacing on the combine, tractor, and grain cart should be adjusted to all run between the rows.

Avoiding Compaction at Harvest

October 11, 2017
If you're worried about compacting still-wet soils this fall, these recommendations can help you avoid or reduce potential compaction and its effects on next year's yields.

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