Optimizing the Integration of Annual Forages into Tobacco Systems

In recent years, the number of KY tobacco farms has declined for various reasons include increased public health concern and higher costs of production. Many of the remaining producers have sought to integrate other commodities into their system as a way to supplement their income. Beef production has been one of the most common commodities integrated into tobacco systems. These type of systems provide unique opportunities to minimize potential negative environmental impacts associated with tobacco systems while also maximizing land use and profitability. Annual forage species may serve as a cover crop for tobacco production and provide many benefits including reducing soil erosion. The forages also provide a source of grazing in the late fall/early spring when many perennial pastures are less productive, thereby lower the need for costly hay production. However, management recommendations for integrating annual forage into tobacco systems are vague and more information is needed. The propose study will examine forage species (rye+crimson clover & wheat+crimson clover), planting date (early & late), harvest date (early & late), forage utilization method (rotational grazing, "mob" grazing, & hay), and in-season tobacco herbicide use in order to identify the management required to optimize production of both crops.