University of Minnesota Leads Innovative Farming Research

Researchers test cover crops, equipment, manure application and more to improve soil health and sustainability.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 6:34am

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A bold, abstract painting featuring sweeping geometric arcs, concentric circles, and precise botanical spirals in earthy tones, conceptually representing the complex interactions between cover crops, soil microbes, and nutrient cycling in a healthy agricultural ecosystem.University research explores how cover crops and innovative farming practices can enhance soil health and productivity for the next generation of sustainable agriculture.Westport Today

The University of Minnesota is at the forefront of agricultural research, with projects evaluating cover crops, strip-till equipment, manure application, and other innovative farming practices. Led by researchers like David Legvold, a Strip-Till Innovator and Hall of Famer, the university is helping farmers across the state and beyond adopt more sustainable and productive methods.

Why it matters

As farmers face increasing economic and environmental pressures, the University of Minnesota's research provides valuable insights and tools to improve soil health, reduce input costs, and boost crop yields through practical, science-based solutions. The university's work is crucial for helping the agricultural community transition to more sustainable practices.

The details

The University of Minnesota's research covers a wide range of topics, including evaluating the use of cover crops, testing new equipment like strip-till machines, and studying the impacts of manure application. Researchers are also working on improving PC-rye, a dual-use crop for both grain and forage production. Additionally, the university has recognized leaders in the no-till and cover crop movements, such as the late George Rehm, who was posthumously honored for his contributions to agricultural communication.

  • The 20th annual Soil Management Summit will take place on January 29-30, 2026 in Mankato, Minnesota.
  • The University of Minnesota's PC-Rye breeding program was initiated in 2022.

The players

David Legvold

A Strip-Till Innovator and Hall of Famer, as well as a farmer, teacher, and student who has been farming in Northfield, Minnesota for over 40 years.

George Rehm

A former University of Minnesota soils fertility specialist and a long-time booster of no-till and strip-till farming practices, who was posthumously named as the Agricultural Communicators Network (ACN) 2024 Distinguished Service Award honoree.

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What they’re saying

“Research results from a study led by Extension specialist Fabian Fernandez at the Rosholt Research Farm in Westport, Minnesota show data from 2016 to 2019 for two cover crop systems: winter rye and Kura clover living mulch.”

— Fabian Fernandez, Extension specialist

What’s next

The 20th annual Soil Management Summit in Mankato, Minnesota on January 29-30, 2026 will feature the latest research and findings from the University of Minnesota's agricultural innovation projects.

The takeaway

The University of Minnesota's commitment to practical, science-based agricultural research is helping farmers across the state and beyond adopt more sustainable and productive farming practices. By testing innovative solutions like cover crops, strip-till equipment, and manure application, the university is playing a crucial role in supporting the transition to a more environmentally-friendly and economically viable agricultural system.