Evaluating Tillage Options for Your Farm

Your tillage system is important to the long-term sustainability of the farm enterprise. Matching a crop tillage system that is suited to your farm resources can provide both economic and environmental benefits. It is important to evaluate your land and determine what options would be appropriate. Several questions have arisen regarding new approaches or options in tillage systems compared to a conventional system. The following fact sheet will look at some alternatives to conventional tillage and evaluate the advantages and disadvantages associated with each as they apply to field crops in New Brunswick. The economics of each tillage approach is closely tied to matching the specific soil, climate, and topography of the production field with the appropriate crop management requirements.