G95-1134 Estimating Percent Residue Cover Using the Photo-Comparison Method

Authors

David P. Shelton, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
Paul J. Jasa, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

1995

Document Type

Article

Comments

© 1995, The Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska on behalf of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln Extension. All rights reserved.

Abstract

This NebGuide presents photographs and describes how to use the photo-comparison method to estimate the percentage of the soil surface covered with crop residue.

Leaving crop residue on the soil surface is the easiest and most cost-effective method of reducing soil erosion. Research in Nebraska and other midwestern states shows that leaving as little as 20 percent of the soil surface covered with crop residue can reduce soil erosion caused by rainfall and flowing water by one-half compared to residue-free conditions. Greater amounts of residue cover will further reduce erosion.