Abstract
ABSTRACTIntegrating cover crops into the corn (Zea mays L.) forage-production system could enhance growers’ profitability and improve ecosystem services. Field plots were established at two locations in Michigan during 2012--2014 to evaluate ethanol production, estimate carbon and energy balance, and the economics of corn forage plus cover crop, cropping systems. In the 2012--2013 crop cycle, which was characterized by a summer drought, the cereal rye (Secale cereale L.), and triticale (Triticale hexaploide Lart.), winter annual cover crops increased cropping system biomass yield by 44%, and total ethanol yield by 28% relative to the no-cover control. During the 2012--2013 cycle, cover crops provided sufficient biomass (6.5 and 8.1 Mg ha−1, respectively, for cereal rye and triticale) to result in a profitable harvest as a biofuel feedstock. However, following a harsh winter, such as that experienced in the 2013--2014 cycle, cover crop yield (1.6 and 1.2 Mg ha−1, respectively, for cereal rye and triticale) was compromised to the point that harvest was not economically justified. Incorporating cover crops into a corn forage cropping system increased total biomass and potential biofuel yield and generated a very favorable net ecosystem carbon and energy balance.
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