Cover Crops Boost Soil and Wildlife Health

By Scout Nelson

Across South Dakota, farmers are proving that healthy soil and thriving wildlife can go hand in hand. Craig and Gene Stehly, who farm near Mitchell, have seen pheasant and deer populations rise in their fields thanks to sustainable practices that focus on soil health and biodiversity.

The brothers use a unique planting system—two rows of corn followed by a skip row filled with cover crops such as crimson clover, radish, oats, and annual rye grass. These cover crops improve soil fertility, reduce erosion, and create habitats for wildlife. The clover helps fix nitrogen in the soil, allowing the farmers to use less fertilizer the following season.

According to Eric Magedanz, a private lands habitat biologist with South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, cover crops offer excellent nesting areas for pheasants and feeding grounds for deer. They also help integrate livestock into cropland rotation, giving pastures a chance to recover and improving their long-term health.

“We really enjoy the wildlife on our farm, and we see a lot of benefits for soil health,” Craig Stehly said.

Through programs such as the Soil Health Improvement and Planning Project and Every Acre Counts, the Stehlys have converted unproductive land into native grass buffers and pollinator zones. These conservation areas now host dozens of plant species and attract diverse wildlife.

Magedanz said even small steps make a difference. Setting aside an acre or two for cover crops or wildlife habitat can enhance biodiversity and improve crop yields. With more than 80 percent of South Dakota privately owned, farmers’ participation is vital for maintaining the state’s natural balance.

By focusing on soil health and sustainable practices, South Dakota farmers are not just improving yields—they are rebuilding ecosystems for generations to come.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-eugenesergeev