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SHANK SMEARING. In 2014, Canadian strip-tiller Mike Verdonck moved from a shank style rig to a 16-row, coulter-style Soil Warrior from Environmental Tillage Systems. He says the discs set on a light setting help avoid smearing and ripping his heavy clay soils, but they’re still powerful enough to handle high residue and actively growing cover crops. Photo Courtesy: Mike Verdonck

Bio-Rehabbing Soil with Strip-Till & Cover Cropping

May 1, 2018

Reduced tillage and year-round cover cropping make Mike Verdonck’s farm operation near Montreal, more profitable and resistant to a punishing northern climate.

For Canadian strip-tiller Mike Verdonck, weed pressure, erosion and a reliance on heavy herbicide and fertilizer applications are all symptoms of “sick” soil. 

The antidote? Reducing tillage, moving to a year-round, multi-species cover cropping system and putting a focus on rebuilding and maintaining soil health. 

Verdonck farms 2,500 acres of mostly corn and soybeans near Montreal, Quebec. Farming heavy clay soils, his latitude exposes him to difficult climate challenges, compounded by more than a decade…

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KEYWORDS 95-day corn coulter style rig cover cropping rotation managing weed pressures strip-till toolbar modifications

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Remlinger Manufacturing Co Inc

Family Owned since 1964 – Remlinger Manufacturing was founded by Wilbur Remlinger in 1964 and the family tradition continues today with Wilbur’s grandson being the current CEO/President. Although the business has expanded and diversified, family remains a core value to the company and is evident in the company culture.

Made in USA – Remlinger Manufacturing is proudly located in Kalida, Ohio. We have dealers located across the US and Canada to conveniently serve our customers.

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Byron Seeds

Byron Seeds LLC is a team of individuals who have a passion for high energy forages, cover crops, and proper farming techniques. Byron personnel seek to understand our clients’ goals so that we may provide the best environment for our clients’ success through research, education, support, and...
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I&J Mfg. LLC

Our years of experience and network of dealers make us the ideal choice for your mowing, no-till and horse drawn equipment needs. Use our Dealer Locator to contact your nearest I&J dealer today.

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