Join the BC Institute of Agrologists for an informative and hands-on Forage and Cover Crop Workshop. We will be joined by Ryan Comeau, PAg, and Keegan Miller for an informative and hands-on workshop looking at cover cropping and forage management, offering participants valuable insights into sustainable agricultural practices.

This is a free event, but registration is required. REGISTER HERE.

The day will begin with coffee, tea, and delicious local baked goods as Ryan Comeau, PAg, kicks things off with introductions and an overview of the workshop. Ryan will set the stage for a day of learning and exploration focused on soil health and crop management.

Keegan Miller will then take the lead, presenting on Covers and Co‘s full-season cover crop, featuring an impressive 15 species blend such as Hairy Vetch, Italian Rye Grass, Berseem Clover, Purple Top Turnip, Spring Tritcale, Forage Peas, Sorghum Sudan, Sunflower, Forage Oats, Yellow Peas, German Millet, Non GMO F. Soybeans, Daikon Radish, Forage Barley, Flax, and Buckweat. During this interactive session, Keegan will guide participants through key topics, including:

• • Seed Selection & Soil Building: Understand the importance of selecting the right seeds for cover cropping to enhance soil structure, fertility, and biodiversity. We’ll cover seed variety selection, fertility management, and the use of companion crops like cereals to improve yields. Learn how integrating diverse species in your cover crop mix can optimize soil health and boost productivity.
  • Reseeding Alfalfa Best Practices: Discover optimal seed rates, timing, and best practices for reseeding alfalfa. We’ll discuss fertility expectations, yield potential, and how to incorporate alfalfa with a cereal companion crop to maximize growth. Minimum tillage methods will also be explored, along with their ideal applications.
  • Multi-Species Environment: Explore how plants like alfalfa form symbiotic relationships with rhizobium bacteria, mycorrhizal fungi, and other soil micro-organisms, improving nutrient cycling, soil health, and crop growth. We’ll dive into the benefits of a full-season cover crop mix, its plant diversity, grazing potential, and timing for planting and harvest. Participants can observe how these crops compare with older hay stands, which typically require more fertilizer but yield less.

Throughout the workshop, you’ll have the opportunity to get hands-on with the cover crops, discussing how to implement these practices effectively on your own land. This is an excellent chance to expand your knowledge on sustainable farming techniques and network with fellow agrologists and industry professionals.