Erosion control systems can be developed from a combination of practices to manage residues, ridge the soil surface, and reduce the unsheltered distance across fields. The calculations to assess the effectiveness of any set of practices is laborious. However, there is software available at USDA SCS field offices in each Colorado county that will perform the evaluations. Use a 100-foot tape, counting the number of intersects on each foot. Thirty-five intersects on the foot markers will indicate 35 percent residue cover.
Additional calculations provide an estimate of residue weight.
Flat small grain equivalents for winter wheat and corn residues. Other residue configurations are visible when examining Figure 5. Agricultural producers planning for Conservation Compliance requirements are encouraged to contact the local SCS office for assistance. Go to top of this page. Updated Wednesday, May 02, 2001.