Cozad Event Focuses on Sustainable Corn Production

By Scout Nelson

Nebraska producers have an opportunity to learn about an innovative farming system that reduces tillage in organic corn production. A special field day scheduled for September 22, 2026, in Cozad, Nebraska, focuses on growing organic corn directly into a living stand of alfalfa.

The event highlights a unique production method that combines organic corn with living alfalfa. This system offers several potential benefits for farmers. Alfalfa naturally helps suppress weeds and provides nitrogen through biological nitrogen fixation. These advantages may reduce the need for tillage and other crop inputs while supporting sustainable farming practices.

A key part of the event is a presentation by Nebraska grower Ben Miller, who brings more than 10 years of experience working with this production system. Miller shares practical information about the equipment, irrigation strategies, and management practices needed to successfully grow corn in a living alfalfa mulch system.

Participants also gain the opportunity to observe the system in real field conditions. A field tour follows the presentation, allowing attendees to visit production fields and see how the corn crop is performing. The tour provides a firsthand view of how living alfalfa can function alongside organic corn and support crop development throughout the season.

The field day is free, but registration is required. For registration, click here.

The program begins with registration at 10:30 a.m. at the Cozad Elks Lodge. After registration, participants attend the educational presentation and field tour. Lunch is provided during the event, creating opportunities for farmers, agricultural professionals, and industry representatives to discuss production practices and share experiences.

The field day is offered free of charge, making it accessible to producers interested in learning more about organic and conservation-focused farming systems. Organizers encourage participants to register in advance to assist with event planning and attendance preparations.

The educational event receives support from the University of Nebraska Lincoln, Nebraska Extension, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Transition to Organic Partnership Program. These organizations continue to support programs that help producers evaluate innovative farming methods and improve long-term sustainability.

The event location is the Cozad Elks Lodge, located at 820 J St., Cozad, NE 69130. Through presentations and field demonstrations on September 22, 2026, producers can learn how no-till organic corn production in living alfalfa may improve weed control, support nitrogen management, reduce tillage needs, and strengthen sustainable crop production systems.

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