Extension Cover Crop Demonstrations Approaching
Published: Friday, March 20, 2026
Farmers, livestock producers and gardeners interested in improving soil health and learning more about cover crop systems for soil health and livestock nutrition are invited to attend a series of free cover crop demo walks hosted by Purdue Extension educators in Elkhart County.
The demonstration plots are located at Gary Kauffman's farm near the Crop Tech parking lot at 66808 C.R. 37 in Millersburg. The plots are located on the south side of the parking lot, and participants should pull into the Crop Tech parking area to access the site.
The demonstration features 22 different strips of cover crops, allowing participants to observe a variety of species and mixes while discussing how they perform in local conditions. Extension educators will share practical insights on establishment methods, management considerations for crops and livestock, and how cover crops can contribute to soil health, weed/disease suppression and nutrient management.
Several repeated walk times are available to accommodate participants' schedules including: March 24: 2–3 p.m. and 6–7 p.m.; March 31: 11 a.m.–12 p.m. and 2–3 p.m.; and April 2: 1–2 p.m. and 6–7 p.m.
During the demo walks, Mark Evans, Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Educator with Purdue Extension, will be available to discuss cover crop establishment, management strategies, and the benefits and challenges growers may encounter when incorporating cover crops into their systems. Also onsite will be Kathryn Jennings, who will be available for those interested in discussing opportunities for grazing cover crops and forage systems.
The program is free and open to the public, and registration is not required. Farmers, livestock producers, gardeners, landowners and anyone interested in soil health, conservation practices and livestock nutrition from cover crops are encouraged to attend. In the event of inclement weather like lightning, severe weather, etc., a particular walk will be cancelled. Otherwise please dress for the weather as the event will be outdoors and one may come and go anytime during each one-hour event.
For more information about the Cover Crop Demo Walks, contact the Purdue Extension Elkhart County office 574/533-0554 (ask for Kathryn or Mark) or contact Kathryn at jennin30@purdue.edu or Mark mevans@purdue.edu via email.
This event will involve walking in a field with possible uneven surfaces, though overall the ground is level, without slope. However, with the parking nearby, much can be seen from the field edge at the parking area. If in need of accommodations to attend this program, contact Brandy Cavanagh prior to the event at 574/533-0554 or bcavanag@purdue.edu by March 20.
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