Impact of Tillage on Surface Runoff In Dual-Use Wheat Systems.

No-till dual-use wheat production systems have not been adopted due to perceptions concerning soil compaction and its effect on forage and grain yields.  The goal of this research was to determine if long-term no-till production systems adversely affect soil properties and production potential in dual-use wheat systems as well as the harsher wheat graze-out system.  Treatments included 1) conventional till, 2) no-till with no aeration; and no-till plus aeration using an AerWay soil conditioner with roller angles set at 3) 0, 4) 5, and 5) 10 degrees. Two grazing systems were also evaluated, 1) graze and grain; and 2) graze out. Rainfall simulations were conducted prior to cattle placement (Fall) and again after grazing/harvest (June).  No significant differences among AerWay treatments and no-till plots were observed, indicating no benefit of AerWay tillage treatments in regard to soil and/or water conservation. Within tillage treatments, runoff volumes were higher from plots within that graze out system compared to the graze and grain system. The third year of the study was initiated in the Fall 2010.