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Crop diversity becoming a popular topic in Minnesota

An independent agronomist in Minnesota is hearing more farmers talk about crop diversity.

“I think growers are starting to realize the corn and soybean system of just being two crops on the operation is a challenge.”

Nate Firle, owner of AgRevival Research in Gibbon, says the farmers he works with bring up crop diversity more than current trade issues.

“(even) More than current supply and demand. It’s just ‘what are the other options out there?”

But at this point, he tells Brownfield most farmers aren’t ready to make any major changes.

“It’s coming, but I think for 2019 it’s just a lot of conversation.”

Firle says sugar beets and dry edible beans are the most common alternatives to corn and soybeans he’s hearing about right now.