ARS | Publication request: DYNAMIC CROPPING SYSTEMS FOR THE NORTHERN GREAT PLAINS: A TEAM APPROACH.

Submitted to: American Society of Agronomy Meetings
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: August 22, 2001
Publication Date: October 27, 2001
Citation: Hanson, J.D., Tanaka, D.L., Krupinsky, J.M., Merrill, S.D., Ries, R.E., Hendrickson, J.R., Liebig, M.A., Johnson, H.A. 2001. Dynamic cropping systems for the northern great plains: a team approach.. American Society of Agronomy Meetings.

Technical Abstract: A multidisciplinary team was formed to evaluate the potential for implementing dynamic cropping systems in the Northern Great Plains. A dynamic cropping system is a form of crop production that relies on an annual strategy of growing crops that optimize the outcome of production, economic, and resource conservation goals. Implicit to this strategy is the need for producers to possess information necessary to respond to continual change. Changes in factors such as weather, market conditions, government programs, and new information and technology, influence the feasibility and profitability of growing certain crops in a particular year. By taking these factors into account when making annual cropping decisions, producers can create an adaptable cropping system; one characterized by greater responsiveness and lower risk than if a fixed cropping system were practiced. Information requirements of dynamic cropping systems, however, pose significant challenges to agricultural research. New methodologies for evaluating crops and crop sequences are needed, along with the ability to translate scientific results into useable decision aids for producers. With this informational base, producers will have the tools needed to implement dynamic cropping systems that are economically viable and environmentally acceptable and sustainable.