John Dobberstein

Making Long-Term No-Tilled Fields Even Better

Nebraska no-tiller Ben Steffen is turning to cover crops, variable-rate fertilizer application and manure from his dairy to build even further upon his farm’s 40 years of no-till success

By John Dobberstein posted on March 1, 2013

Ben Steffen's farm embraced no-till practices nearly 4 decades ago, as he and his late father sought to reduce input costs and erosion and save soil moisture.

Cover Crops Vs. Tile: Which Is the Best?

In the spring, cover crops might serve as a less-expensive alternative to tile systems for drying out fields. But tile has its own perks, and the two systems may be best working together.

By John Dobberstein posted on November 1, 2012 | Posted in Economics

With crop prices and farm incomes at record levels, many no-tillers have been pouring substantial sums of money into improving drainage.

Cover Crops: Starting Is the First Step

The right covers can transform tough soils, but no-tillers must fight past early challenges to find what works on their farm, Terry Taylor says.

By John Dobberstein posted on October 1, 2012 | Posted in Soil Health

Terry Taylor has spent much of his adult life figuring out how to unlock the potential of cover crops on his southern Illinois farm.

Roller System Kills Covers, Plants Corn In One Pass

No-tiller’s homemade planter rolls and crimp covers and eliminates a spring burndown trip.

By John Dobberstein posted on July 1, 2012 | Posted in Seeding Practices

A Pennsylvania no-tiller has created a special system for his corn planter that rolls and crimps cover crops and plants in one pass.

Highly Erodible Land a Main Reason for Choosing No-Till for Some

By John Dobberstein posted on April 18, 2012 | Posted in Soil Health

After spending 2 days last week visiting farms in central North Carolina, it was apparent that no-tillers have a special respect for their farmland, and what can happen if it isn’t cared for.