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When and How to Mow CRP Fields for Weed Control
Understanding USDA Mowing Regulations and How to Use Mowing as a Management Tool Mowing is one of the most widely used techniques for establishing and managing vegetation in Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) fields, but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. While mowing can be an effective tool for weed control and habitat maintenance, it
How to Prevent and Control Woody Encroachment in CRP Fields
Best Practices for Keeping Trees and Shrubs from Overtaking CRP Grasslands One of the most common long-term threats to the health and integrity of Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) plantings is woody encroachment, the gradual invasion of trees and shrubs into grassland habitats. If left unmanaged, woody species can drastically alter the structure and function of
Integrated Pest Management Strategies for CRP Land
How to Manage Pests While Maintaining a Healthy Ecosystem in CRP Fields One of the key goals of the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) is to restore and maintain ecological balance on lands that were once in agricultural production. While native grasses and forbs thrive under the right conditions, they are not immune to threats, particularly
The Role of Prescribed Burns in CRP Management
How Controlled Burns Can Be Used as a Tool for Maintaining Healthy CRP Land Prescribed burns, also known as controlled burns, are one of the most effective, natural management tools available for maintaining the health and longevity of Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) plantings. While the thought of intentionally setting fire to land may seem counterintuitive,
Common Weeds in CRP Fields and How to Control Them
Identifying and Managing Invasive Species That Threaten Native Plantings The success of any Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) project depends on establishing strong, diverse stands of native vegetation. However, one of the most common threats to that success, particularly during the early stages of establishment, is the invasion of aggressive weeds. These opportunistic plants compete for
The Role of Mycorrhizal Fungi in CRP Plantings
How Beneficial Soil Microbes Support Native Grass Establishment and Long-Term Success When most people think of a successful Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) planting, they imagine healthy stands of native grasses and vibrant wildflowers waving in the wind. But what’s happening beneath the surface is just as important, and often overlooked. One of the most critical,