Kansas State University extension specialists and agents will host a field day focused on using cover crops to meet forage needs and to complement rangelands, especially during drought.

This free event, beginning at 4:30 p.m. on May 17, will offer expert advice to producers about dryland cropping systems, and how covers can be used for grazing and integrated livestock. The field day will include both discussion and demonstrations. It will be hosted by a local producer, and a light meal will be provided to participants.

Organizers say that the exceptional drought conditions in many Kansas counties makes using cover crops more difficult, but not impossible.

“We want to take this opportunity to demonstrate how these crops can not only improve soil health and water quality, but also how producers can manage grazing in water-limited systems,” said Stacie Minson, K-State Research and Extension watershed specialist. The field day is sponsored by Big Big Creek Middle Smoky Hill River Watersheds, North Central SARE, and the Midway Extension District. Speakers from K-State will include experts on soil science, cropping systems, and horticulture.