Impact/Purpose:

This project explores alternative cropping systems for the intermediate rainfall farming area of Eastern Washington State. By developing cropping systems that reduce the need for tillage, particulate matter can be reduced, and disease and pest cycles can be interrupted thereby reducing the need for pesticides. Use of minimum tillage reduces the potential for wind blown dust and reduces the need for fertilizer.

Description:

The project has demonstrated the adoption of crop diversification and soil protection using no-till farming methods. During 1999, data was colleted and evaluated on weed and insect populations, diseases, crop yields, post harvest residue, water infiltration rates, and economic analysis. The purpose was to acquire baseline data and to later assist in determining the benefits of no-till farming methods such as soil protection and pesticide reduction. The Wilke Farm field day, designed to show area farmers about these new crops and cropping techniques, attracted about 75 farmers in 2000, and close to 100 in 2001. Interest in the Wilke farm has resulted in Washington State University hiring a full time faculty member for that site, and the project is continuing with funding from other sources. This is a long term effort that is designed to improve the environmental and economic performance of farming in the intermittent rainfall area of Eastern Washington.

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