Progress 09/01/23 to 08/31/24
Outputs
Target Audience:The project team engaged targeted audiences such as commodity organizations, growermeetings, and graduate courses to discuss the project, its objectives, and future ways for individuals to be engaged orreceive results. Thus far, the project team has reached over 816 growers through in person presentations addressing project results and regenerative agricultural practices. Additionally, radiointerviews have been held with the project director which have reached an extremely broad audience that touches thousands of residents across Texas. Changes/Problems:Severe drought in the Southern Great Plains has led again to poor cotton yields of only 2 lb/acre at Altus. Although cotton was deemed a failure following insurance guidelines in 2023, several runoff producing storm events were observed at Altus. Equipment failure at Altus impacted multiple sampling events; however, the team has worked to address these issues and it appears that at least for the meantime all issues have been successfully addressed. Summer cover crops were not established at most of our research locations due to water stress and drought conditions. Yield has also impacted our Texas High Plains and Rolling Plains locations with failed crops and limited water runoff. Summer cover crops were not established at most of our research locations due to water stress and drought conditions. Delays in Years 1 and 2 in collecting soil samples due to drought, along with equipment failures and personnel changes, have delayed some portions of the soils analysis, though those data have begun to be shared with the project team and will be completed soon. Natural attrition continued as happens at academic institutions. Dr. Paul DeLaune will be leaving Texas A&M for the University of Arkansas. Katie Lewis will be taking over leadership of Objective 2 with his departure. Dr. Alex Rocatelli left OSU to join the faculty at Texas Tech University. At Texas Tech, he will continue to help deliver Extension programs in Oklahoma. His research tasks at OSU have been distributed to Drs. Sumit Sharma, Josh Lofton, and others at OSU to ensure all tasks are completed on time. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Name Classification Task/Trained on Boogades, Nicholas F Graduate Student Field research, data analysis Lira, Huitzitzil A Professional Field research, data analysis Cobos, Christophe J Scientist Field research, data analysis Fuller, Emily Graduate Student Objective 1: Barriers to adoption Osei, Bismark Graduate Student Objective 2,3, Soil analysis Stellbauer, Robert M Professional Objective 1: Barriers to adoption Berthold, Troy A Scientist Objective 1: Barriers to adoption Berube, Lindsey Graduate Student Objective 2: Field Research Booker, Victoria Graduate Student Objective 2: Field Research Singh, Harsanjam Graduate Student Objective 2: Field Research Stelter, Mark T Professional Objective 2: Field Research Borsuah, Josephus Professional Objective 2: Field Research White, Clayton D Scientist Objective 2: Field Research Haralson, Cecil D Technical Objective 2: Field Research Fulford, Jerry D Technical Objective 2: Field Research Swantek, Teresa Graduate Student Objective 2: Field Research Williams, Tristian Graduate Student Objective 2: Field Research Bhattacharyya, Siddhartha Graduate Student Objective 2: Field Research Edwards, Jack Graduate Student Objective 2: Field Research Abedzadeh, Saeedeh Graduate Student Objective 3: Modeling tasks Gregory, Lucas F Scientist Objective 2: Field Research Rocateli, Alex Scientist Objective 2: Field Research Gerlich, Jason A Technical Objective 2: Field Research Saasan, Navdeep Graduate Student Objective 3: Modeling tasks Johnson, Trevor Graduate Student Objective 4: Economics Malabanan, Aileen Graduate Student Objective 4: Economics Mansur, Subhana Graduate Student Objective 4: Economics Cannon, Brenna Graduate Student Objective 5: Education and Outreach Singh, Harpreet Graduate Student Objective 5: Education and Outreach Alian, Sara Scientist Objective 3: Modeling tasks Mirchi, Ali Scientist Objective 3: Modeling tasks Barker, Breanna Other Objective 5: Education and Outreach Jamar, Patrick Post Doc Objective 1: Barriers to adoption Samanta, Sayantan Post Doc Objective 3: Modeling tasks Gao, Long Post Doc Objective 4: Economics Chatterjee, Sumantra Post Doc Utilize novel technologies for cover crop and grazing model development Baker, Logan Undergraduate Objective 1: Barriers to adoption Brewster, Analeese Undergraduate Objective 2: Field Research McPeak, Macie Undergraduate Objective 2: Field Research Sharma, Sumit Scientist Objective 5: Education and Outreach Zhao, Lunyu Undergraduate Objective 4: Economics Mustain, Sarah Undergraduate Objective 5: Education and Outreach Pettus, Mattie Undergraduate Objective 5: Education and Outreach Sirmon, Preston S Professional Objective 5: Extension and outreach programming Robinson, Clay Professional Objective 5: Extension and outreach programming Leija, Dane Technical Objective 5: Extension and outreach programming Henley, Loren N Administrative Project Management Monroe, Emily G Administrative Project Management Riley, Simon Undergraduate Objective 5: Education and Outreach Walden, Jared Professional Utilize novel technologies for cover crop and grazing model development How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The project team has actively participated in meetings with key stakeholders, providing updates and insights about the project's progress, current findings, and anticipated outcomes. Project PIs shared information on short-, medium-, and long-term goals with commodity boards (for wheat, corn, and sorghum), presented at grower meetings, and engaged in interviews for both radio and print media. Drs. Lewis and Berthold played a prominent role in these outreach activities, while Drs. Bell, Kimura, Bourke, and other Objective 5 PIs integrated regenerative agriculture principles, such as cover crop management, into Extension programs. Collaboration with the advisory board has been essential in determining the best channels for sharing information with target communities. The team has disseminated project results at local, regional, and national levels as findings have become available. Locally, Soil Stewardship Kits were used in two county meetings, where they accompanied presentations on soil health and conservation practices. Regionally, project updates were presented at the West Texas Agricultural Chemical Institute, Texas State Support Meeting, USDA-NRCS professional development events, and a multi-day, multi-county 4-H camp, introducing youth to regenerative agriculture through hands-on activities. Nationally, faculty and graduate students shared findings at conferences like the American Society of Agronomy-Crop Science Society of America-Soil Science Society of America, sessions with the University Councils on Water Resources, the Colorado State Master Irrigator Meeting, and the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers' annual meetings. Ongoing advisory board interactions have been critical in identifying and reaching the most relevant communities with project insights and advancements What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Short-Term Goals (1-2 years) Evaluate regenerative agricultural practices across varying soil textures and climate gradients to determine yield-limiting factors and optimize management practices for intensification. We will continue to collect farm level information from our network of producers regarding inputs, management practices, and crop yield. Runoff monitoring will continue at the Altus sites, and soil samples will be collected from the Goodwell and Ft. Cobb sites. Analysis will be conducted on results as they are obtained. Identify barriers to adoption of regenerative agricultural practices and engage agricultural stakeholders in educational and research activities to assist in overcoming these barriers. The project team will continue to enhance the collected survey data to deepen the understanding of regional barriers across the SGP. This will be achieved through the development of peer-reviewed publications. In addition, the team is creating a separate survey focused on the integration of grazing into cover crop systems. This will help identify potential policy changes that could enable producers to generate additional income by growing more commodities on the same acreage. Engage opinion leaders and supporters of regenerative agriculture to allow localized experience to increase the likelihood of adoption. The project team will maintain ongoing engagement with the advisory committee, consisting of key opinion leaders and supporters of regenerative agriculture, through one virtual meeting in March and an in-person meeting in August. During these meetings, the team will present project updates and outline next steps. The advisory committee will offer valuable input and insights to enhance the project's impact. To keep the committee informed between meetings, project leadership will also compile and share quarterly updates highlighting key activities and progress related to each objective. Implement research and demonstrations across the SGP to quantify the benefits of regenerative practices and diversifying farm incomes. Farmers were identified from an established network of regenerative producers and soil sampling began on those farms in 2023. The farms were selected to represent a variety of soil textures and climate gradients and regenerative practices at varying levels of stages. In accordance with short-term goal 1, we will also collect farm level information on inputs and outputs to evaluate farm budgets and incomes. Economic budgets across field sites were created to determine short-term system profitability. Establish a Soil Steward Program across the SGP with curriculum aimed at educating producers on regionally optimized regenerative agricultural management strategies. The publication is ready for review by objective 5 team members, and it will be delivered to growers at Year 4 meetings. The development of an on-line grazing cover crop story map will assist producers in making grazing decisions as part of a regenerative agricultural system. Work during the next year will consist of purchasing the remaining equipment and supplies for the Master Soil Stewardship Kits and training County Extension Agents (and others) on their utilization for deployment. Additionally, supplemental materials addressing regenerative grazing with livestock and forage specialists will continue. Medium-Term Goals (3-5 years): We will continue to collect data from ongoing experimental sites to gain a better understanding of yield-limiting factors identified in short-term goal #1. We will also complete analysis from collected data in years 1 and 2 and share with objectives 3, 4, and 5 for modeling and curriculum development. Evaluate regenerative agricultural practices using experimental data, and historical and future climate data to assess the long-term effects on soil health, water capture, GHG emissions, watershed-scale processes, and climate change adaptation. The project team continues to develop, calibrate, and validate the various models being employed to conduct the "what-if" analysis. However, in Lamesa, TX, 30-year simulations with the DNDC model revealed that cover crops enhanced Soil Organic Carbon levels by 53-67% and total nitrogen by 21% compared to no-cover treatments. However, these cover crop systems exhibited greater variability in both yield and soil moisture. In the Upper Middle Brazos-Miller Watershed, the APEX model assessed the long-term hydrological and water quality effects of shifting from conventional tillage to no-tillage on approximately 35% of row-cropped areas. This change led to a 4% reduction in average annual streamflow, while seed cotton yields increased by 12-16% for dryland and 9% for irrigated fields, with no significant change in winter wheat yields. Additionally, the EPIC model was developed for Altus, Oklahoma, to analyze the impacts of regenerative practices. Preliminary findings suggest that these practices can effectively reduce surface runoff and enhance plant-available water. Establish region-specific undergraduate and graduate courses in Regenerative Agriculture at Oklahoma State University, Texas A&M University, Texas Tech University, and West Texas A&M University utilizing data collected from this research. We will complete curriculum recording and complete procuring all the supplies for the student kits. The course will be delivered at the four universities beginning Fall 2024. Long-Term Goals (5+ years): Increase agricultural productivity, profitability, resiliency to climate change, ecosystem benefits, and sustainability in the SGP via increased adoption of regenerative agricultural practices through recommendations provided through our research, education, and outreach. We will continue to collect data and information from experimental sites and on-farm demonstrations in addition to modeling data generated. These results will then be used to develop educational and outreach materials that will then be disseminated to the communities at large. Support needed changes to cost-share program policies regarding the incorporation of livestock into regenerative agricultural systems involving cover crops. The established advisory board will be instrumental in the future of policy change. As conversations begin to draft the future farm bill, the advisory board members can use research findings to justify specific and needed policy changes for semi-arid regions.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Short-Term Goals (1-2 years) Evaluate regenerative agricultural practices Replicated regenerative practices such as conservation tillage, cover cropping, crop rotation, and integrated crop-livestock systems are being evaluated for impact on soil health and function, GHG emissions, soil water use and storage, and crop yield. These locations represent benchmark soils in respective regions on both irrigated and dryland agriculture. Specifically, continuous cotton and cotton rotation options have been evaluated across all locations, specific to each region. Large scale grazing paddocks have been used to evaluate the use of cover crops and grazing during long-fallow periods of a cotton-wheat-fallow cropping system. Although drought conditions continued to hinder the SGP, cool-season cover crops were grazed in Spring 2024, resulting in 3.2 lb in average daily gain for grazing cattle. Cover crop termination timing studies in Lamesa and Chillicothe, TX continued for a second year of evaluation, examining the impact of terminating cover crops 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks before cotton planting versus a no-cover crop control. From each of the studies above, detailed soil chemical, biological and physical properties are being determined and analyzed. Also, cover crop adaptation trials continue at three locations across OK and TX. Identify barriers to adoption of regenerative agricultural practices Survey results have been used to support Objectives 2 through 5 by offering valuable insights. These results have been analyzed, and findings have been documented in several peer-reviewed journal articles, which are currently under review and awaiting publication decisions. Additionally, to further expand the scope of the study, a new survey focusing on the grazing of cover crops has been designed. Additionally, economic data from the barriers to cover crop survey administered to evaluate agricultural producer's willingness to adopt regenerative cover crop practices in their operations and the effects of producer and farm characteristics on willingness to accept values. A manuscript incorporating the results was submitted and accepted to the Journal of Agricultural and Applied Economics. Engage opinion leaders and supporters of regenerative agriculture During the project's annual and mid-year meetings, the advisory committee and project team discussed key research areas to increase adoption rates and address gaps in the project scope. They focused on identifying factors limiting adoption, such as practical barriers farmers face, and explored how tailored, region-specific recommendations could improve success rates. These discussions emphasized refining the research approach to better meet producers' needs and promote sustainable agricultural practices. Implement research and demonstrations across the SGP Replicated research is being used to quantify the benefits of regenerative practices on soil health, agronomic sustainability, and economic viability. Data from these sites helps modelers refine regional models, with inputs and outputs for each practice recorded and shared with economists for economic analysis. This will help identify the most feasible regenerative approaches for each region. Demonstration sites on farmer fields were identified and sampled in the Texas High and Southern High Plains in spring 2023. Establish a Master Soil Steward Program across the SGP The Master Soil Steward program will be rebranded as the Regenerative Ag Soil Steward Program. The Regenerative Ag Soil Stewardship Kits were developed and unveiled at three stakeholder meetings: our annual project meeting, a Colorado State Master Irrigator Program, and a scientific conference. Supplementary material addressing regenerative grazing with livestock and forage specialists is also in progress. Medium-Term Goals (3-5 years): Implement experiments aimed at optimizing regenerative practices in the SGP. As outlined in short-term goal #1, replicated research experiments have been implemented across the SGP in OK and TX, with data collection planned for at least three years. Many sites already had regenerative practices in place before the project began, providing valuable long-term data. Soil samples have been collected at all locations, and analysis is underway. Greenhouse gas fluxes have been monitored at our Lamesa, TX site, with additional measurements taken at the grazing site in Vernon, TX this year. Emissions trends remain consistent with last year, and analysis for Vernon is ongoing. Soil moisture dynamics continue to be tracked, and field experiments to optimize cover crop termination timing began in year 2. UAS imagery, field data, and soil moisture data are being collected at two Texas sites to evaluate cover crop termination for cotton systems. On-farm cooperators from year 1 are serving as sites for data collection on regenerative practices and yield-limiting factors across the SGP. In year 3, new experiments were established to assess summer and winter crops as cover crops and grazing material at four locations. Evaluate regenerative agricultural practices using experimental data, and historical and future climate data. Four models--DNDC, EPIC, APEX, and SWAT--are being utilized to assess the long-term impacts of regenerative agricultural practices across three sites in the Southern Great Plains. This evaluation spans three watersheds: Upper Double Mountain Fork of Brazos, Upper Middle-Brazos-Millers, and North Fork Red River. In Lamesa, TX, 30-year simulations with the DNDC model revealed that cover crops enhanced Soil Organic Carbon levels by 53-67% and total nitrogen by 21% compared to no-cover treatments. However, these cover crop systems exhibited greater variability in both yield and soil moisture. In the Upper Middle Brazos-Miller Watershed, the APEX model assessed the long-term hydrological and water quality effects of shifting from conventional tillage to no-tillage on approximately 35% of row-cropped areas. This change led to a 4% reduction in average annual streamflow, while seed cotton yields increased by 12-16% for dryland and 9% for irrigated fields, with no significant change in winter wheat yields. Additionally, the EPIC model was developed for Altus, Oklahoma, to analyze the impacts of regenerative practices. It incorporates historical climate, agronomic, and management data to simulate past conditions and evaluate scenarios involving cover crops and no-tillage. Establish regional undergraduate and graduate courses in Regenerative Agriculture. Curriculum has been developed to address this goal. A syllabus has been developed, and we are scheduling recording events for the course. Class began in August 2024 with 16 students enrolled. All of the materials and supplies needed for the students to complete the required laboratory component for the course will be purchased by Spring 2024. Long-Term Goals (5+ years): Increase agricultural productivity, profitability, resiliency to climate change, ecosystem benefits, and sustainability in the SGP. Thanks to input from the advisory committee, the team has a clearer understanding of the support producers need to increase the adoption of regenerative agricultural practices. The short-term initiatives developed with the committee's guidance are expected to drive greater adoption of these practices, delivering benefits such as improved agricultural profitability, enhanced climate resilience, ecosystem restoration, and overall sustainability in the Southern Great Plains (SGP). This collaborative approach aims to create a model for sustainable agriculture that can be applied beyond the project region. Support needed changes to cost-share program policies. Research is underway to address the question of economic and environmental sustainability of livestock integration in regenerative agricultural systems. Many of our advisory board are in positions to influence policy and aid in communicating research findings
Publications
- Type:
Peer Reviewed Journal Articles
Status:
Submitted
Year Published:
2024
Citation:
Zhang, K., N.Z. Liu, B.A. McCarl, and C.J. Fei,
"Prospects for and Value Determining Characteristics of Enhancing Agricultural Soil Carbon Sequestration: A review and some potential Research Needs", Climate, 12, 151.https://doi.org/10.3390/cli12100151
- Type:
Other Journal Articles
Status:
Awaiting Publication
Year Published:
2024
Citation:
McCarl, B.A.,
"Climate Change - What Do We Do About It? Economic Issues on Agricultural Adaptation and Mitigation", American Journal of Agricultural Economics, forthcoming
- Type:
Other Journal Articles
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2024
Citation:
Favero, A., C. Wade, Y.X. Cai, S.B. Ohrel, J.S. Baker, J. Creason, G.S. Latta, and B.A. McCarl,
"US land sector mitigation investments and emissions implications", Nature Communications, Forthcoming
- Type:
Theses/Dissertations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2024
Citation:
Edwards, Jack Lees. 2024. Employing Cover Crops and Not Till Practices on Southern Great Plains Cotton Production to Manage Runoff Water Quantity and Quality. Masters Thesis, Oklahoma State University. https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14446/344932
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2024
Citation:
Singh, H., S. Samanta, RF.S. Mvuyekure, S. Ale, K. Lewis, J. Burke, C. Cobos, and R. Mohtar. 2024. Simulated effects of rye cover crop termination date on cotton production in the Southern High Plains of Texas. Beltwide Cotton Conference, Fort Worth, TX, January 3-5, 2024
- Type:
Peer Reviewed Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2024
Citation:
Samanta, S., D.K. Bagnall, S. Ale, C.L.S. Morgan, and C.C. Molling. 2024. Modeling tillage effects on plant-available water by considering changes in soil structure. Journal of the ASABE. 67(3): 589-599. https://doi.org/10.13031/ja.15695
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2024
Citation:
Samanta, S., Mvuyekure, R.F.S., Ale, S., DeLaune, P., Mirchi, A., and Wagner, K. (2024). Simulated effects of no-tillage and cover cropping on crop production and ecosystem service benefits in the Upper Middle-Brazos-Millers Watershed. In ASABE Annual International Meeting, Anaheim, CA, July 28-31, 2024.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2024
Citation:
Singh, H., Ale, S., Kim, J., Samanta, S., Singh, B., & Mohtar, R. (2024). Assessing the watershed-scale impacts of long-term adoption of pasture cropping on ecosystem services in north central Texas. In ASABE Annual International Meeting, Anaheim, CA, July 28-31, 2024.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2024
Citation:
Mvuyekure, R.F.S., Ale, S., Samanta, S., Gentry, T., DeLaune, P., & Mohtar, R. (2024). Simulating Watershed Scale Effects of Regenerative Agricultural Practices on Hydrology and Water Quality. In ASABE Annual International Meeting, Anaheim, CA, July 28-31, 2024.
- Type:
Peer Reviewed Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2024
Citation:
Da, Y., B.A. McCarl, Y.Y. Xu, and F. Yi,
"Climate change and winter wheat yields: The roles of freezing days and long-run adaptations", European Review of Agricultural Economics, Volume 51, Issue 3, July, Pages 815-843, https://doi.org/10.1093/erae/jbae015
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Progress 09/01/22 to 08/31/23
Outputs
Target Audience:The project team engaged targeted audiences such as commodity organizations, growermeetings, and graduate courses to discuss the project, its objectives, and future ways for individuals to be engaged orreceive results. Thus far, the project team has reached over 142 growers through in person presentations. Additionally, radiointerviews have been held with the project director which have reached an extremely broad audience that touches thousands of residents across Texas. Changes/Problems:Severe drought in the Southern Great Plains has led again to poor cotton yields of only 2 lb/acre at Altus. Although cotton was deemed a failure following insurance guidelines in 2023, several runoff producing storm events were observed at Altus. Summer cover crops were not established at most of our research locations due to water stress and drought conditions. Yield has also impacted our Texas High Plains and Rolling Plains locations with failed crops and limited water runoff. Summer cover crops were not established at most of our research locations due to water stress and drought conditions. Our Cotton and UAS Extension Specialist in Lubbock announced his resignation as of December 11, 2022. As of right now, no objectives/deliverables are being changed. Dr. Gurjinder Baath was brought onto the project to complete the duties previously assigned to Dr. Maeda. Several faculty member at OSU have left their positions for new opportunities including Seth Byrd, Andrea Jilling, and Jason Warren. OSU is in the process of rehiring Seth Byrd's cotton specialist position. In the interim, Jason Warren took on Dr. Byrd's tasks. Andrea Jilling took a position at the University of South Carolina this summer. OSU is in the process of initiating a subcontract with USC to support the continued involvement of Dr. Jilling at her new institution. Finally, Dr. Warren was named the Assistant Director of Extension in Oklahoma. His tasks have been distributed to Dr. Sumit Sharma and others on the team until such time as his position is refilled. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Project Specialist Administrative Austin Phillippe Kevin Wagnber Project Management Grant Administrator Administrative Nitsch, Jason T. Allen Berthold Project management Grad Research Assistant Graduate Student Teresa Swantek Jilling Equipment safety, research methodology, field methods, data collection, data analysis Grad Research Assistant Graduate Student Navdeep Saasan Mirchi Hydrologic modeling Grad Research Assistant Graduate Student Muhammad Akbar Mirchi Hydrologic modeling Grad Research Assistant Graduate Student Jack Edwards Kevin Wagnber Equipment safety, research methodology, field methods, data collection, data analysis Grad Research Assistant Graduate Student Brenna Cannon Jason Warren Equipment safety, research methodology, field methods, data collection, data analysis Grad Research Assistant Graduate Student Jackson Williams Jason Warren Equipment safety, research methodology, field methods, data collection, data analysis Grad Research Assistant Graduate Student Tristian Williams Jason Warren Equipment safety, research methodology, field methods, data collection, data analysis Grad Research Assistant Graduate Student Brenna Cannon Jason Warren Equipment safety, research methodology, field methods, data collection, data analysis Grad Research Assistant Graduate Student Harpreet Singh Rocateli Forage systems and implementing demonstrations in producer and experimental station fields Grad Research Assistant Graduate Student Harsanjam Singh Sharma Cover crop experiment design, research methodology, field methods, data collection, data analysis Grad Research Assistant Graduate Student Chime Garcia Jason Warren Equipment safety, research methodology, field methods, data collection, data analysis Graduate Assistant - Research Graduate Student Cathey, Jacey (Jack) Wayne Keeling Cropping systems, laboratory analysis Graduate Assistant - Research Graduate Student Paymard, Parisa Briana Wyatt Equipment safety, research methodology, field methods, data collection, data analysis Graduate Assistant - Research Graduate Student Boogades, Nicholas F Katie Lewis Equipment safety, research methodology, field methods, data collection, data analysis Graduate Assistant - Research Graduate Student Niazi, Ali Akram Srinivasulu Ale Watershed modeling using soil and water assessment tool (SWAT). Graduate Assistant - Research Graduate Student Baker, Logan T. Allen Berthold IRB, survey instrument design, data analysis, and publication preparation Graduate Assistant - Research Graduate Student Bhattacharyya, Siddhartha Terry Gentry Equipment safety, research methodology, field methods, data collection, data analysis Graduate Assistant - Teaching Graduate Student Zhao, Lunyu Bruce McCarl GAMs basic and advance programming and High Plain model simulation Communications Specialist Other Sierra Schupp Kevin Wagnber Social media outreach and educational material development Post Doc Post Doc Burke, Joseph Katie Lewis Equipment safety, research methodology, field methods, data collection, data analysis Post Doc Post Doc Samanta, Sayantan Srinivasulu Ale Watershed modeling using soil and water assessment tool (SWAT). Extension Associate Professional Sirmon, Preston S Jourdan Bell Extension and education activities, identification of badoption barriers Extension Specialist Professional Smith, Jason Jason K. Smith Supported Extension and education activities for Obj. 5 Research Associate Professional Cobos, Christopher J Katie Lewis Equipment safety, research methodology, field methods, data collection, data analysis Research Scientist Professional Dianna Bagnall Cristine Morgan Soil health measurements, data analysis, impact assessment Research Scientist Professional Robinson, Clay Jourdan Bell Extension and education activities, identification of badoption barriers Assistant Research Scientist Scientist White, Clayton D (Jack) Wayne Keeling Cropping Systems, impact evaluations, conference presentations Assistant Research Scientist Scientist Hossain, Md Shakhaw Terry Gentry Soil enzyme and microbial analysis Faculty Scientist Ali Mirchi Chinn Presented/attended conference Faculty Scientist Alexandre Rocateli Thomason Forage systems and implementing demonstrations in producer and experimental station fields Faculty Scientist Jason Warren Thomason Soil sampling, soil carbon content analysis Faculty Scientist Sumit Sharma Thomason Cover crop experimentation Field Technician Technical Evans, Debrah J Katie Lewis Equipment safety and field methods Lab Coordinator Technical Valencia, Hector L Katie Lewis Equipment safety and field methods Research Associate Technical Gerlich, Jason A Lucas Gregory Equipment safety, research methodology, field methods, data collection, data analysis Temporary Worker Technical Tristian Williams Jason Warren Equipment safety and field methods Temporary Worker Technical Gavin Sirmons Jason Warren Equipment safety and field methods Temporary Worker Technical Grace Ogden Jason Warren Equipment safety and field methods Student Worker Undergraduate Student Kathi LaPoint Byrd Equipment safety, research methodology, field methods, data collection, data analysis Student Worker Undergraduate Student Cade Halbrook Byrd Equipment safety, research methodology, field methods, data collection, data analysis Student Worker Undergraduate Student Katelyn Blevins Byrd Equipment safety, research methodology, field methods, data collection, data analysis Student Worker Undergraduate Student Analeese Brewster Byrd Equipment safety, research methodology, field methods, data collection, data analysis Student Worker Undergraduate Student Jebidiah Stubbs Sharma Cover crop experiment design, equipment safety and field methods Undergraduate Student Undergraduate Student Devyn Wilhelm Jason Warren Equipment safety and field methods Undergraduate Student Undergraduate Student Katelyn Blevins Jason Warren Equipment safety and field methods Undergraduate Student Undergraduate Student Analeese Brewster Jason Warren Equipment safety and field methods Undergraduate Student Undergraduate Student Sarah Mustain Jason Warren Equipment safety and field methods How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The project team has actively engaged in meetings where stakeholders of interest are present and provided information about the project and the types of results that are expected to come. For example, Dr. Lewis and Dr. Berthold attended and presented the short-, medium-, and long-term goals of the project to commodity boards (wheat, corn, and sorghum), grower meetings, and has been interviewed multiple times for radio and print media. Additionally, interaction with our advisory board has been pivotal in knowing where to disseminate information to reach communities of interest. Results have been disseminated locally, regionally, and nationally by the project team as they became available. Locally, the Master Soil Stewardship Kits were utilized at two county meetings. The kits were coupled with presentations about soil health and conservation management. Regionally, project updates were shared at the West Texas Agricultural Chemical Institute, Texas State Support Meeting, and USDA-NRCS professional development opportunities. Nationally, results have been presented by faculty and graduate students at national conferences, including the American Society of Agronomy-Crop Science Society of America-Soil Science Society of America, multiple sessions at University Councils on Water Resources, and American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers annual meetings. Interaction with our advisory board has been pivotal in knowing where to disseminate information to reach communities of interest. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Short-Term Goals (1-2 years) Evaluate regenerative agricultural practices across varying soil textures and climate gradients to determine yield-limiting factors and optimize management practices for intensification. We will continue to collect farm level information from our network of producers regarding inputs, management practices, and crop yield. Runoff monitoring will continue at the Altus sites, and soil samples will be collected from the Goodwell and Ft. Cobb sites. Analysis will be conducted on results as they are obtained. Identify barriers to adoption of regenerative agricultural practices and engage agricultural stakeholders in educational and research activities to assist in overcoming these barriers. The project team will continue to augment the collected survey data to strengthen the understanding of barriers in various regions across the SGP. This will be done through the development of peer-reviewed publications. Additionally, the project team is developing a separate survey specific to the incorporation of grazing in cover crops that will further provide guidance on what policy changes may be needed to allow producers to capture additional income through the production of more commodities on the same acreage. Engage opinion leaders and supporters of regenerative agriculture to allow localized experience to increase the likelihood of adoption. The project team will continue to engage the advisory committee, made up of opinion leaders and supporters of regenerative agriculture, through one virtual meeting in March, and the in-person meeting in August. At these meetings, project updates and next steps are presented. The advisory committee provides input and insight to make the project more impactful. Additionally, to continue keeping the advisory committee updated, project leadership will develop highlights of key activities conducted under each objective and distribute updates quarterly. Implement research and demonstrations across the SGP to quantify the benefits of regenerative practices and diversifying farm incomes. Farmers were identified from an established network of regenerative producers and soil sampling began on those farms in 2023. The farms were selected to represent a variety of soil textures and climate gradients and regenerative practices at varying levels of stages. In accordance with short-term goal 1, we will also collect farm level information on inputs and outputs to evaluate farm budgets and incomes. Establish a Master Soil Steward Program across the SGP with curriculum aimed at educating producers on regionally optimized regenerative agricultural management strategies. Work during the next year will consist of purchasing the remaining equipment and supplies for the Master Soil Stewardship Kits and training County Extension Agents (and others) on their utilization for deployment. Additionally, supplemental materials addressing regenerative grazing with livestock and forage specialists will continue. Medium-Term Goals (3-5 years): Implement experiments aimed at optimizing regenerative practices in the SGP that are designed based on yield-limiting factors identified in short-term goal #1. We will continue to collect data from ongoing experimental sites to gain a better understanding of yield-limiting factors identified in short-term goal #1. Evaluate regenerative agricultural practices using experimental data, and historical and future climate data to assess the long-term effects on soil health, water capture, GHG emissions, watershed-scale processes, and climate change adaptation. The project team continues to develop, calibrate, and validate the various models being employed to conduct the "what-if" analysis. Once calibrated and validated, these models will provide valuable insight into the climate change impact of agriculture in the SGP, regenerative agriculture impact on greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental processes. Establish region-specific undergraduate and graduate courses in Regenerative Agriculture at Oklahoma State University, Texas A&M University, Texas Tech University, and West Texas A&M University utilizing data collected from this research. We will complete curriculum recording and complete procuring all the supplies for the student kits. The course will be delivered at the four universities beginning Fall 2024. Long-Term Goals (5+ years): Increase agricultural productivity, profitability, resiliency to climate change, ecosystem benefits, and sustainability in the SGP via increased adoption of regenerative agricultural practices through recommendations provided through our research, education, and outreach. We will continue to collect data and information from experimental sites and on-farm demonstrations in addition to modeling data generated. These results will then be used to develop educational and outreach materials that will then be disseminated to the communities at large. Support needed changes to cost-share program policies regarding the incorporation of livestock into regenerative agricultural systems involving cover crops. The established advisory board will be instrumental in the future of policy change. As conversations begin to draft the future farm bill, the advisory board members can use research findings to justify specific and needed policy changes for semi-arid regions.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Short-Term Goals (1-2 years) Evaluate regenerative agricultural practices Replicated research trials at 7 locations across the Southern Great Plains (SGP) implemented in year 1 were evaluated and monitored in year 2. Regenerative practices such as conservation tillage, cover cropping, crop rotation, and integrated crop-livestock systems are being evaluated for impact on soil health and function, GHG emissions, and crop yield. These locations represent benchmark soils in respective regions including the Oklahoma Panhandle, southwest OK, Texas Rolling Plains, and the Southern High Plains of Texas and both irrigated and dryland agriculture. Identify barriers to adoption of regenerative agricultural practices A second round of mailed surveys gathered additional information regarding cover crops in the SGP. To ensure an adequate response rate, multiple contacts were made to 1,500 subjects starting with a pre-notice postcard on Dec. 2, 2022, followed by the first survey package on Dec. 9, 2022, a thank you/reminder postcard on Dec. 16, 2022, and the last survey package on Dec. 30, 2022. Non-deliverable and response numbers were considered for the last survey mailing. The total response rate between both rounds of the cover crop survey is 24%, with 194 of the 678 survey responses being usable for analysis. Summarized results were shared with other objectives to provide research and extension insight. A separate survey being developed will determine stakeholder perspectives on incorporating grazing into cover crop operations. Engage opinion leaders and supporters of regenerative agriculture During the project annual and mid-year meetings, the advisory committee and project team engaged in robust discussions regarding what should be researched to increase adoption, what the project is missing, and various crop mixes. One advisory committee member organized a tour of an irrigation district to provide the project team with additional context of challenges producers are facing. This tour was highly impactful and highlighted the need for locally appropriate practices due to climate variability across the project region. Another advisory committee member passionately spoke about the importance of the project and encouraged the project team to pursue all means of continuing the research beyond the life of the project. Implement research and demonstrations across the SGP Replicated research described under short-term goal #1 is being used to quantify the benefits of regenerative practices not only on soil health and agronomic sustainability but also on economic viability. Data collected from replicated research sites is being used my our modeling teams to improve models outputs using a regional focus. All inputs and outputs of listed practices for each location are being recorded and shared with economists for economic modeling and analysis to determine the most feasible regenerative agricultural approaches for respective regions. Demonstration locations on farmer fields have been identified and were sampled in the Texas High and Southern High Plains in spring 2023. Establish a Master Soil Steward Program across the SGP The Master Soil Stewardship Kits were developed and unveiled at two stakeholder meetings, our annual project meeting, and a scientific conference. Feedback was solicited at each meeting to modify the Kits for final deployment in FY24. Supplementary material addressing regenerative grazing with livestock and forage specialists is also in progress. Medium-Term Goals (3-5 years): Implement experiments aimed at optimizing regenerative practices in the SGP. As stated under short-term goal #1, replicated research experiments have been implemented at 7 locations across the SGP. These experiments are designed to capture a minimum of three years of data. Many locations have had regenerative management practices in place prior to this project; hence, systems provide information beyond the initiation and time frame of the project. Soil samples were collected in full at all of our locations and analysis of those samples are being conducted. We monitored greenhouse gas soil fluxes at our Lamesa, TX, location and plan to include more locations in year 3. Drought conditions complicated both crop production and ideal sampling conditions in year 2 just as in year 1. The on-farm cooperators identified in year 1 served as soil sampling and data collection locations for short-, medium-, and long-term implementation of regenerative agricultural practices to determine yield-limiting factors across the SGP. Additional experiments were established in year 2 to evaluate summer and winter crops for use as a cover crop and grazing material. Four locations implemented cover crop assessments. Evaluate regenerative agricultural practices using experimental data, and historical and future climate data. Four models (DNDC, EPIC, APEX, and SWAT) are being used to evaluate the long-term effects of regenerative ag practices at three sites (Lamesa & Vernon, TX and Altus, OK) in three watersheds (Upper Double Mountain Fork of Brazos, Upper Middle-Brazos-Millers, North Fork Red River) in the SGP. Postdocs and graduate students have been hired and have initiated modeling activities. The Denitrification Decomposition (DNDC) model is being used to predict crop growth, soil C dynamics, N leaching, and emissions of N2O, NO, dinitrogen, NH3, CH4, and CO2 at field and watershed scales. Results from the long-term simulations with the DNDC model at Lamesa in the Southern High Plains of Texas indicated that soil carbon and nitrogen could be doubled with the adoption of cover crops and no-tillage practices in cotton production systems as compared to no-cover crop treatments. Further, on average, cotton yield was higher under the conventional tillage and mixed cover treatments compared to other treatments modeled. The Environmental Policy Integrated Climate (EPIC) model will predict effects of management decisions on soil loss, water quality, and crop yields at the field scale. A baseline field scale EPIC model has been developed for the experimental plots in Altus, OK to evaluate the effects of cover crops and no till practices on runoff, crop available water, evapotranspiration, and cotton yield. Preliminary results suggest that annual runoff is decreased by 20-40% shifting from conventional tillage to no-till with cover crops. However, annual cotton yield decreased under the scenarios of cotton with cover crop. This needs further investigation. Establish regional undergraduate and graduate courses in Regenerative Agriculture. Curriculum is being developed to address this goal. A syllabus has been developed, and we are scheduling recording events for the course. It will be available for students to take beginning Fall 2024. All of the materials and supplies needed for the students to complete the required laboratory component for the course will be purchased by Spring 2024. Long-Term Goals (5+ years): Increase agricultural productivity, profitability, resiliency to climate change, ecosystem benefits, and sustainability in the SGP. With input from the advisory committee, the team has a better understanding of what producers need to increase the adoption of regenerative agricultural practices. Short-term work conducted with guidance of the advisory committee will increase the adoption of regenerative agricultural practices where benefits will yield increased agricultural profitability, climate change resiliency, ecosystem benefits, and overall sustainability in the SGP. Support needed changes to cost-share program policies. Research is underway to address the question of economic and environmental sustainability of livestock integration in regenerative agricultural systems. Many of our advisory board are in positions to influence policy and aid in communicating research findings to policymakers.
Publications
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2022
Citation:
Samanta, S., Ale, S., Bawa, A., Singh, J., Simbi Mvuyekure, R. F., DeLaune, P. B., Morgan, C. L. S., & Jain, S.�(2022) Estimation of Soil Water Content Under Different Conservation Practices Using Supervised Machine Learning Algorithms on Images Collected Using Unpiloted Aerial System. ASA, CSSA, SSSA International Annual Meeting, Baltimore, MD, Nov. 6-9, 2022
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2022
Citation:
Singh, J., Simbi Mvuyekure, R. F., Ale, S., Lewis, K. L., Burke, J. A., & Cobos, C.�(2022) Evaluation of the DNDC Model on an Amarillo Fine Sandy Loam Soil at Lamesa in the Southern High Plains of Texas. ASA, CSSA, SSSA International Annual Meeting, Baltimore, MD, Nov. 6-9, 2022.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Submitted
Year Published:
2022
Citation:
Samanta, S., D.K. Bagnall, S. Ale, C.L.S. Morgan, and C.C. Molling. 2022. Modeling tillage effects on plant-available water under varying climate using ped size information. Vadose Zone Journal. Submitted.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2022
Citation:
Ale, S., Samanta, S., Singh, J., Himanshu, S.K., DeLaune, P.B., and Morgan, C.L.S. 2022. Simulated field- and watershed-scale effects of conservative practices in semi-arid rainfed crop production systems. International Conference on Reimagining Rainfed Agro-ecosystems: Challenges & Opportunities. Organized by ICAR-Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture, Hyderabad, India. December 22-24, 2022
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Submitted
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Samanta, S., S. Ale, D.K. Bagnall, and C.L.S. Morgan. 2023. Assessing the watershed-scale effects of tillage management on surface runoff and sediment loss using a curve number- precipitation relationship based approach. Journal of Hydrology. Submitted.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Mvuyekure, R.F.S., Singh, J., Ale, S., Lewis, K., Burke, J., Cobos, C., Barnes, E., and Mohtar, R. 2023. Assessing the Effects of Cover Crops on Soil Water Use and Soil Health in Semi-Arid Irrigated Cotton Production Systems in the Southern High Plains Region. ASABE Annual International Meeting, Omaha, NE, July 9-12, 2023
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Samanta, S., Ale, S., Singh, J., Mvuyekure, R.F.S., DeLaune, P. 2023. Comparison of soil water content estimates from machine learning and physically based crop models. ASABE Annual International Meeting, Omaha, NE, July 9-12, 2023
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Samanta, S., S. Ale, D.K. Bagnall, C.L.S. Morgan. 2023. Assessing the watershed-scale effects of tillage management on surface runoff and sediment loss using a curve number-precipitation relationship based approach. Journal of Hydrology. Volume 625, Part B, 130130. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhydrol.2023.130130
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Fei, C.J., and B.A. McCarl. 2023.
Agricultural Soils and the Quest for Net Zero Emissions. Choices 38(4).
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Ale, S., Samanta, S., Singh, J., Himanshu, S.K., DeLaune, P.B., and Morgan, C.L.S. 2023. Enhancing Resiliency of Rainfed Crop Production Systems through the Adoption of Regenerative Agricultural Practices. ASABE Annual International Meeting, Omaha, NE, July 9-12, 2023
- Type:
Theses/Dissertations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Dissertation; The economic and environmental effects of alternative renewable fuel standards and
implement a cost of carbon on greenhouse gas emission mitigation in the united states; College Station, TX; Used High Plain model to simulate carbon sequestration potential.
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Progress 09/01/21 to 08/31/22
Outputs
Target Audience:In year 1 of the project, the project team reached the target audience through various presentations about the project; however, since the project kicked off in December 2021, we have not completed a full growing season meaning there are no results to share yet. As such, the project team engaged targeted audiences such as commodity organizations, grower meetings, and graduate courses to discuss the project, its objectives, and future ways for individuals to be engaged or receive results. Thus far, the project team has reached over 60 growers through in person presentations. Additionally, radio interviews have been held with the project director which have reached an extremely broad audience that touches thousands of residents across Texas. Changes/Problems:Drainage issues were identified this quarter at several flumes at Altus but have been addressed. More significantly,severe drought in the Southern Great Plains has led to poor cotton yields of only 2 lb/acre at Altus, and poor establishments of cover crops. Yield has also impacted our Texas High Plains and Rolling Plains locations with failed crops and limited water runoff. Summer cover crops were not established at most of our research locations due to water stress and drought conditions.There was a tornado at the Vernon Research Center, which is where carbon and nitrogen analyses of soil and plant materials were planned to be performed. This has caused a delay in progress. Our Cotton and UAS Extension Specialistin Lubbock has announced his resignation as of December 11, 2022. We are currently discussing opportunities to bring someone else into the project that can produce the deliverables promised by Dr. Maeda. As of right now, no objectives/deliverables are being changed. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Name Title Training Brace, Carter Undergraduate Student Equipment safety and field methods Burke, Joseph Research Assistant Equipment safety and field methods Gerlich, Jason A Research Specialist Equipment safety and field methods Newlin, Lane Undergraduate Student Equipment safety and field methods Nitsch, Jason Grant Administrator Project management Olsovsky, Taylor B Research Associate Training on IRB, survey instrument design, data analysis, and publication preparation Saasan, Navdeep Grad Research Asst Navdeep Kaur Saasan received training in watershed modeling using soil and water assessment tool (SWAT). Paymard, Parisa Research Assistant Parisa has been trained on how to use a Giddings probe to collect intact soil cores at all project sites, as well as laboratory analysis to determine soil physical properties. Bhattacharyya, Siddhartha Grad Research Asst Siddhartha was trained on current literature related to regenerative agricultural practice impacts on soil health and also selected laboratory methods for characterization of soil microbial communities. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Since the project is only entering into year two, very few results are available to date. However, the project team has actively engaged in meetings where stakeholders of interest are present and provided information about the project and the types of results that are expected to come. For example, Dr. Lewis attended and presented the short, medium, and long term goals of the project to commodity boards (wheat, corn, and sorghum), grower meetings, and has been interviewed multiple times for radio and print media. Additionally, interaction is with our advisory board has been pivotal in knowing where to disseminate information to reach communities of interest. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Short-Term Goals (1-2 years) Evaluate regenerative agricultural practices across varying soil textures and climate gradients to determine yield-limiting factors and optimize management practices for intensification. We will be identifying farmers from an established network of regenerative producers and will begin collecting farm level information regarding inputs, management practices, and crop yield. Identify barriers to adoption of regenerative agricultural practices and engage agricultural stakeholders in educational and research activities to assist in overcoming these barriers. The project team will continue to augment the already collected survey data to strengthen the understanding of barriers in various regions across the SGP. This will be done by altering the existing survey to an appropriate length for an end of program evaluation. Additionally, the project team has discussed the possibility of administering an additional survey specific to the incorporation of grazing in cover crops that can further provide guidance on what policy changes may be needed to allow producers to capture additional income through the production of more commodities on the same acreage. Engage opinion leaders and supporters of regenerative agriculture to allow localized experience to increase the likelihood of adoption. The project team will continue to engage the advisory committee, made up of opinion leaders and supporters of regenerative agriculture, through one virtual meeting in March, and the in-person meeting in August/September. At each of these meetings, project updates will be presented as well as next steps for each objective. Through these presentations, the advisory committee will provide input and insight to make the project more impactful. Additionally, to continue keeping the advisory committee updated, the project director and co-directors will develop highlights of key activities conducted under each objective and distribute on a quarterly basis. Implement research and demonstrations across the SGP to quantify the benefits of regenerative practices and diversifying farm incomes. We will be identifying farmers from an established network of regenerative producers and will begin soil sampling those farms in 2023. The farms will be selected to represent a variety of soil textures and climate gradients and regenerative practices at varying levels of stages. In accordance with short-term goal 1, we will also collect farm level information on inputs and outputs to evaluate farm budgets and incomes. Establish a Master Soil Steward Program across the SGP with curriculum aimed at educating producers on regionally optimized regenerative agricultural management strategies. Work during the next year will consist of further assessing existing soils curriculum and laboratory methods that can be utilized and compiled into the development of the Master Soil Steward Guide for landowners. Additionally, supplemental materials addressing regenerative grazing with livestock and forage specialists will continue. Medium-Term Goals (3-5 years): Implement experiments aimed at optimizing regenerative practices in the SGP that are designed based on yield-limiting factors identified in short-term goal #1. We will continue to collect data from ongoing experimental sites initiated in year 1 to gain a better understanding of yield-limiting factors identified in short-term goal #1. This data will help in achieving the medium-term goal of the project. Evaluate regenerative agricultural practices using experimental data, and historical and future climate data to assess the long-term effects on soil health, water capture, GHG emissions, watershed-scale processes, and climate change adaptation. The project team continues to develop, calibrate, and validate the various models being employed to conduct the "what-if" analysis. Once calibrated and validated, these models will provide valuable insight into the climate change impact of agriculture in the SGP, regenerative agriculture impact on greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental processes. Establish region-specific undergraduate and graduate courses in Regenerative Agriculture at Oklahoma State University, Texas A&M University, Texas Tech University, and West Texas A&M University utilizing data collected from this research. Curriculum will continue to be developed to address this medium-term goal. We are in the process of scheduling recording events for components of the course. Materials and supplies needed for the students to complete the required laboratory component for the course will be ordered and the project team will begin working with the various universities to incorporate the course into course catalogues. Long-Term Goals (5-15+ years): Increase agricultural productivity, profitability, resiliency to climate change, ecosystem benefits, and sustainability in the SGP via increased adoption of regenerative agricultural practices through recommendations provided through our research, education, and outreach. We will continue to collect data and information from experimental sites and on-farm demonstrations in addition to modeling data generated. These results will then be used to develop educational and outreach materials that will then be disseminated to the communities at large. Support needed changes to cost-share program policies regarding the incorporation of livestock into regenerative agricultural systems involving cover crops. The established advisory board will be instrumental in the future of policy change. As conversations begin to draft the future farm bill, the advisory board members can use research findings to justify specific and needed policy changes for semi-arid regions.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Short-Term Goals (1-2 years) Evaluate regenerative agricultural practices across varying soil textures and climate gradients to determine yield-limiting factors and optimize management practices for intensification. We will be identifying farmers from an established network of regenerative producers and will begin collecting farm level information regarding inputs, management practices, and crop yield. Identify barriers to adoption of regenerative agricultural practices and engage agricultural stakeholders in educational and research activities to assist in overcoming these barriers. The project team will continue to augment the already collected survey data to strengthen the understanding of barriers in various regions across the SGP. This will be done by altering the existing survey to an appropriate length for an end of program evaluation. Additionally, the project team has discussed the possibility of administering an additional survey specific to the incorporation of grazing in cover crops that can further provide guidance on what policy changes may be needed to allow producers to capture additional income through the production of more commodities on the same acreage. Engage opinion leaders and supporters of regenerative agriculture to allow localized experience to increase the likelihood of adoption. The project team will continue to engage the advisory committee, made up of opinion leaders and supporters of regenerative agriculture, through one virtual meeting in March, and the in-person meeting in August/September. At each of these meetings, project updates will be presented as well as next steps for each objective. Through these presentations, the advisory committee will provide input and insight to make the project more impactful. Additionally, to continue keeping the advisory committee updated, the project director and co-directors will develop highlights of key activities conducted under each objective and distribute on a quarterly basis. Implement research and demonstrations across the SGP to quantify the benefits of regenerative practices and diversifying farm incomes. We will be identifying farmers from an established network of regenerative producers and will begin soil sampling those farms in 2023. The farms will be selected to represent a variety of soil textures and climate gradients and regenerative practices at varying levels of stages. In accordance with short-term goal 1, we will also collect farm level information on inputs and outputs to evaluate farm budgets and incomes. Establish a Master Soil Steward Program across the SGP with curriculum aimed at educating producers on regionally optimized regenerative agricultural management strategies. Work during the next year will consist of further assessing existing soils curriculum and laboratory methods that can be utilized and compiled into the development of the Master Soil Steward Guide for landowners. Additionally, supplemental materials addressing regenerative grazing with livestock and forage specialists will continue. Medium-Term Goals (3-5 years): Implement experiments aimed at optimizing regenerative practices in the SGP that are designed based on yield-limiting factors identified in short-term goal #1. We will continue to collect data from ongoing experimental sites initiated in year 1 to gain a better understanding of yield-limiting factors identified in short-term goal #1. This data will help in achieving the medium-term goal of the project. Evaluate regenerative agricultural practices using experimental data, and historical and future climate data to assess the long-term effects on soil health, water capture, GHG emissions, watershed-scale processes, and climate change adaptation. The project team continues to develop, calibrate, and validate the various models being employed to conduct the "what-if" analysis. Once calibrated and validated, these models will provide valuable insight into the climate change impact of agriculture in the SGP, regenerative agriculture impact on greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental processes. Establish region-specific undergraduate and graduate courses in Regenerative Agriculture at Oklahoma State University, Texas A&M University, Texas Tech University, and West Texas A&M University utilizing data collected from this research. Curriculum will continue to be developed to address this medium-term goal. We are in the process of scheduling recording events for components of the course. Materials and supplies needed for the students to complete the required laboratory component for the course will be ordered and the project team will begin working with the various universities to incorporate the course into course catalogues. Long-Term Goals (5-15+ years): Increase agricultural productivity, profitability, resiliency to climate change, ecosystem benefits, and sustainability in the SGP via increased adoption of regenerative agricultural practices through recommendations provided through our research, education, and outreach. We will continue to collect data and information from experimental sites and on-farm demonstrations in addition to modeling data generated. These results will then be used to develop educational and outreach materials that will then be disseminated to the communities at large. Support needed changes to cost-share program policies regarding the incorporation of livestock into regenerative agricultural systems involving cover crops. The established advisory board will be instrumental in the future of policy change. As conversations begin to draft the future farm bill, the advisory board members can use research findings to justify specific and needed policy changes for semi-arid regions.?
Publications
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