What is the minimum amount of crop residue that must remain on the soil surface for conservation tillage qualification?

For conservation tillage qualification, a minimum of 30% crop residue must remain on the soil surface. This practice is crucial for promoting soil health, reducing erosion, and conserving moisture in the soil. By maintaining at least this amount of residue, the soil benefits from improved structure and fertility, as well as protection against wind and water erosion.

The 30% threshold helps ensure that sufficient organic matter is left on the soil to provide these benefits while still allowing for practices that can reduce tillage intensity. This is essential for promoting sustainable agricultural practices, as it enhances soil biology and aids in water retention, leading to better crop performance over time.