Impact of Conservation Systems on Net Returns to Cotton Production in Alabama

With lower commodity prices and higher production expenses, cotton producers are concerned with maximizing yields, while minimizing production expenses. The adoption of a conservation system, including a winter cover crop, may be a viable option for cotton producers in Alabama. The objective of this research is to evaluate the economic impact of different tillage systems and cover crops on cotton production in Alabama. The data are from an experiment conducted during crop years 2004 - 2009 at the Prattville Agricultural Research Unit in Prattville, Alabama.  The experiment included four tillage systems and three cover crops. The tillage systems were: 1) no tillage; 2) spring strip till; 3) spring paratill; and 4) fall paratill. The three cover crop treatments were: 1) cereal rye; 2) winter wheat; and 3) winter fallow.