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KWS Cereals introduces new soil protection program

An Illinois-based seed company is implementing a program that helps farmers meet sustainability goals and diversify revenue opportunities.

Dr. Becca Brattain, country manager with KWS Cereals, says their “KWS Cover+” utilizes Hybrid Rye.

“So it is an opportunity for Hybrid Rye grain to be harvested and sold to an authorized partner,” she says.  “Then cleaned bagged, tagged and utilized by farmers as a terminal cover crop for soil protection purposes.”

She tells Brownfield there’s been an increase in demand for high quality cover crop seed.

“It gives them the unique chance to source rye locally.”  She says, “It gives them the opportunity to source rye from a known genetics provider with a known genetic source, and a known pedigree.”

According to a recent American Seed Trade Association survey, an additional 10.5 million acres of cover crops will be planted in the next five years to support conservation practices.

Brattain says…

“It’s really a first of a kind program for a second generation of a hybrid to be utilized as a seed.”

She says the first KWS Cover+ seed is expected to be available this fall.

To find your local source and learn more about the program click HERE.

AUDIO: Dr. Becca Brattain – KWS Cereals