The following are the most commonly asked questions . . . . . .. If your specific question about your operation is not answered here please do not hesitate to contact our office.

What is the definition of “new grass conversion” for this contract?

This contract rewards producers who have recently converted cropland to stands of perennial grass.  It is not for alfalfa or similar forage stands planted primarily for hay and containing more than 50% legume.

Cropland converted to Conservation Reserve Program acres is eligible since 2003 is eligible for this offset, as well as any other predominantly grass planting made since 2003.  Haying, grazing, or just leaving it stand are options with these acres.

The stand must have been seeded since January 1, 2003 and proof of that can be shown by submission of the CRP-1 forms in the case of CRP, or by seed and seeding receipts.  Older stands can be enrolled in the “Long Term Grass” contract.

Why do more recently planted stands earn a higher sequestration rate?

Soil science research shows that the increase in organic matter and sequestered carbon is fastest in the early years of the newly planted grass.  Organic matter and sequestration continue for many years, but a higher crediting rate is realistic for the early years.

Is controlled burning of these acres allowed?

Burning of perennial grasses is allowed, although a programmed or planned schedule is best used depending on grass species and concerns of invasive species.  Many CRP contracts allow for burning every third or fourth year.  While burning removes surface residue temporarily, the newly invigorated stand of grass has been shown to be more effective at sequestration.

Can these contract acres be converted to annual cropping before the end of the contract?

The protocols allow for these acres to be converted to the no-till contract rates provided that no tillage is used in the conversion from grass to annual crops.  Haying, burning, chemical application, and any no-till operation is allowed in the conversion process.  The contract sequestration rate will change to the applicable rate for continuous conservaiton tillage, provide the Land Resource Region is eligible to receive no-till Carbon Credits.