We integrate reduced tillage, cover crops, diversified crop rotations, perennial crops, and integrated crop-livestock systems. These approaches sustain coupled primary and secondary production while building more resilient and productive agroecosystems. Research emphasizes practical outcomes for farmers, including improved soil function, yield stability, and reduced reliance on external inputs.
This area focuses on redesigning farming systems for long-term resilience and greater resource use efficiency. We quantify trade-offs and synergies to support scalable regenerative practices.
Major themes draw from:
- The multi-state Kernza projects (organic dual-use perennial grain systems): kernza.org
- Long-term tillage and crop rotation experiments: the 60+ year Triplett-Van Doren No-Tillage Experiment (crop diversification and no-tillage effects on yield stability and resilience)
- Soybean yield response to 60 years of no-till in Ohio. Agronomic Crops Network / C.O.R.N. Newsletter (July 25, 2025)
- Diverse crop rotation and no-tillage increase corn yield: Evidence from a long-term study. C.O.R.N. Newsletter (July 24, 2025)
- Integrated crop-livestock approaches that enhance nutrient cycling, soil organic matter, and ecological intensification