What is no-till driling?
No-till drilling has become an important conservation practice in farming. No till planting provides effective erosion control and moisture conservation measures. A no-till drill places the crop seeds directly into the soil through the residue of a previous crop without plowing or disking. This leaves most of the soil surface undisturbed by tillage and protected by the existing crop residue. The pre-existing crop residue reduces runoff, thus preventing erosion and conserving water for crop uses. Crops can be produced while making soil improvements.
No-Till planting is beneficial in the following ways:
- Increased organic matter in the soil
- Increased moisture retention in the soil
- Reduced sheet erosion
- High plant yields
- Increased carbon sequestration
- Decreased seed usage
For most agriculture producers, no-till drilling offers an alternative to traditional tillage that can produce better crop yields, even in times of drought.
The Pickens County Soil and Water Conservation District has two no-till drills that are available to rent that take at least a 50hp with hydraulic attachments.
Please contact Amy Wilson at 864-901-6946 to reserve one.
