What is dryland farming?
Dryland farming is crop production that relies primarily on natural rainfall rather than irrigation. Because there is no supplemental irrigation, soil type, rainfall, moisture conservation, and weather conditions play a major role in production. AgWest Land Brokers can help buyers evaluate the productivity and value of dryland farmland.
Is dryland farming profitable?
Yes, dryland farming can be profitable, although returns can vary significantly from year to year because production depends heavily on rainfall and weather. Crop prices, input costs, soil productivity, and management practices also affect profitability. AgWest Land Brokers can help buyers evaluate a property’s production potential and market value.
What crops grow best on dryland?
The best dryland crop depends on the region, soil type, available moisture, and growing conditions. In Nebraska and Kansas, common dryland crops include corn, soybeans, wheat, grain sorghum, and various forage crops. Local climate and soil conditions should be considered when determining which crops are best suited to a particular property.
How does rainfall affect yields?
Rainfall is one of the most important factors affecting dryland crop yields. Both the amount and timing of rainfall matter, with adequate moisture during critical stages of crop development often having a significant impact on final yields. Dryland producers use soil and moisture management practices to make the most of available rainfall.
What tillage practices conserve moisture?
Practices such as no-till, strip-till, reduced tillage, and maintaining crop residue can help conserve soil moisture by reducing evaporation, limiting soil disturbance, and improving water infiltration. The best approach depends on the crop, soil type, climate, and farming operation.
What is residue management?
Residue management is the practice of managing leftover plant material, such as corn stalks and soybean residue, after harvest. Leaving appropriate amounts of residue on the soil surface can reduce erosion, protect the soil, improve moisture retention, and help maintain soil health. AgWest Land Brokers considers farming practices and soil conditions when evaluating agricultural properties.
Can dryland become irrigated?
Potentially, but not every dryland property can be converted to irrigation. The availability of groundwater or surface water, well capacity, NRD regulations, certified irrigated acres, infrastructure, economics, and other factors must be considered. Before purchasing land with the intention of adding irrigation, buyers should verify that irrigation is legally and practically feasible. AgWest Land Brokers can help buyers identify properties with irrigation potential and understand the factors that should be investigated.