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Diverse Landcover Boosts Yields for Major U.S. Crops

Diverse landcover can boost yields for major U.S. crops like corn and wheat, a new study shows. The findings run counter to previous assumptions that suggest monoculture—or specializing in a single crop, covering larger fields, that can be harvested with bigger machines on a simplified landscape—boosts a farm’s production capacity.

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“We found that in more diverse systems, corn and wheat yields can be up to 10 percent higher,” says Emory University Assistant Professor in environmental sciences Emily Burchfield. “And if you combine high diversity of landcover with more complex landscape configurations, corn and wheat yields increase by more than 20 percent.” The research, funded by USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture, has major implications for helping farmers adapt to climate change.

Source : usda.gov

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Georgia Farm Bureau Unites County Leaders to Strengthen Agriculture Advocacy

Video: Georgia Farm Bureau Unites County Leaders to Strengthen Agriculture Advocacy

The Georgia Farm Bureau recently gathered over 150 county presidents for an event focused on grassroots leadership, advocacy, and collaboration. With agriculture policies starting at the local level, this meeting provided a platform for leaders to share ideas, engage in advocacy training, and ensure a unified voice for Georgia’s farming community. Experts like Tom McCall, Amelia Junod, and Austin Large emphasize the importance of political engagement, consistent messaging, and strengthening connections with legislators. Watch to learn how these leaders are shaping the future of agriculture in Georgia!