Energy efficiency is the latest buzzword in the ag world.

With the rising cost of energy inputs, efficiency is coming to the forefront of not only everyday farming practices, but also will more than likely be a key component in the upcoming Farm Bill.

The USDA has developed and produced several energy estimators that producers can use to see potential savings areas.

The website energytools.sc.egov.usda.gov covers animal housing, irrigation, nitrogen use and tillage. These estimators allow users to enter specific data, like location and local costs, to obtain accurate savings potential.

Reducing tillage is probably the biggest and easiest way to save and have the greatest return on investment in the short term. Converting to no-till not only saves time, labor, fuel and money, but it also improves soil structure, making the farm more profitable in the long run.

Comparing tillage practices across the four major crops grown in the area reveals some astounding results.

When establishing forages, there is a $13/ac reduction in fuel cost between moldboard plowing and no-till. Corn sees nearly a $13/ac reduction from plowing to no-till and a little more than $8/ac from chiseling to no-till. Soybeans have about $3/ac.

When converting disking to no-till, small grains have about $11/ac. By realizing these types of savings, it’s possible to pay for a planter or drill based solely on fuel costs. Factor in time and labor and the savings quickly compound.

With the excessive amount of rain we’ve had this spring, the potential for erosion increases. The producers who participate in USDA programs are required by law to remain in conservation compliance, which allows for tolerable sheet erosion but does not permit gully erosion.

Utilizing waterways is a key component in controlling erosion and producers need to be aware of sensitive areas and unusual circumstances that can lead to accelerated erosion.

Our office can provide program and technical assistance for constructing waterways, and those needing assistance are encouraged to visit our office as problems arise, so program benefits are not lost for the cropping year.

Andy Gaver is a conservationist with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service in Butler County.