CAP Projects
 
Yield Monitor and Global Positioning Systems
Forty-five farms are now equipped with yield monitors and global positioning systems. These farms generated data with over 960 acres in 28 demonstrations during 2000 and 48 demonstrations in 2001.
 
This program was initiated to help farmers learn how to get accurate information with the technology.  Plot work was based on conservation tillage practices that have potential to improve soil structure and faming income. To build a database of information, practices were limited to nitrogen rates, sub tillage, strip tillage and residue management techniques and tools.
 
Conducting Randomized Replicated Demonstration Plots
To ensure that information from field plots is accurate, randomized replicated plots are encouraged. This gives each practice exposure to all the variabilities in the field. Including four replications of a practice within the plot eliminates the effect variables that cannot be removed have on yield. Differences in yield can then be attributed to the chief cause with this procedure.
 
Sub Tillage and Residue Management Program
Six Soil and Water Districts were assisted in acquiring residue management tools. These tools produced data from 25 sub tillage demonstrations on over 500 acres and 10 residue management tool demonstrations on over 100 acres. Compaction tests were conducted on these farms to measure the effectiveness in removing dense layers and in keeping layers from recurring.
 
Strip Tillage Demonstrations
Three local dealers participated in the strip tillage demonstration program. From these tools, 10 demonstrations on over 200 acres were conducted in 2000 and 2001. The main information gained is the need for having the equipment properly set up to remove the correct amount of residue and to create mound height to benefit spring planting.
 
Farmer Cluster Program
Seven clusters of farmers sharing equipment, demonstrating new technique, holding meetings to share information will be started Spring 2002. The purpose is to add to the field information generated by the yield monitors, residue management and strip tillage programs, to assist farmer groups in conducting plots that will generate accurate data.
 
Field Scouting Program
A program of scouting every field in the program was initiated to monitor possible causes of yield difference. Variability abounds in fields where several soil types are present, where ditches have been cleaned and the spoil concentrated in the field; where applications have been improperly made, where inadvertent omissions and commissions were made; where drainage, insects, diseases, and weeds adversely affect yield. This unique feature of CAP field demonstration efforts is proving very worthwhile to farmers growing the crop and local dealers making applications.
 
1990-Sprayer Rental
To help in the aid farmers with the introduction of conservation tillage. CAP acquired two 30 foot sprayer. These sprayers were housed at local SWCD’s and were available for farmers to spray burn down chemicals to help eliminate spring tillage work.
 
1989- Nutrient Management Study with Heidelberg University and the Soil Doctor
 
2020- Cover Crop Champions