Land is always changing - sometimes quickly, sometimes gradually. Rapid changes come in the form of mudslides, large flooding events, or even wildfires that strip the land. Slower changes, on the other hand, start subtly with small events that often go unnoticed. Over time, these small shifts can lead to major transformations. This article focuses on two common slow changes to watch for: the slow migration of vegetation and the movement of soil. Catching these early makes them easier and less expensive to correct.

Vegetation Creep
Unwanted vegetation can encroach from field edges or central areas with small trees and brush. Small trees become large, and noticeable acres may be lost to this encroaching growth. Trees reduce healthy crop development and yield potential by competing for moisture and nutrients, all while blocking sunlight.

Red cedars in grasslands start with slow growth, but within 20 to 40+ years, a section of grass can become up to 30 percent or more covered in cedar trees. These trees often go unnoticed as the seedlings blend in with the grass and grow far apart. Before long, they fill in and occupy a large area, stopping all grass growth beneath them. This area becomes heavily laden with humus, creating an acidic environment in the soil. To help monitor this, use photos from year to year and place markers along the edges of fields to track outward growth.

Above is an example of what happens to a pasture if cedar control has not been done.

From an economic perspective, annually investing the time and resources to push back perimeter vegetation is beneficial, while waiting too long can become costly. The trouble with growth is that what is above ground is often mirrored below ground. In grassland, pay special attention to the small seedlings that emerge. A simple spot spray when treating other invasive weeds, such as thistle, will kill the small trees embedded in the grass. If allowed to grow unchecked, the costs to clean can exceed the value of the land. However, with a thorough mechanical process and possibly a prescribed burn, the grass can be restored; this applies to CRP ground as well.

Soil Movement
Erosion (soil loss) and accretion (soil buildup) are two more subtle but significant land changes. Soil movement happens everywhere, even in pastures where grass has grown for hundreds of years.

Above is evidence of what is starting out to be minor erosion in a field, the crop residue is kind of hiding this rut.

You can use measuring points to track soil levels over time and catch early signs of erosion or buildup. In crop production ground, grass waterways are known for higher grass length, easily hiding the amount of soil accumulating. These areas slowly get higher, and water begins to drain alongside the waterway (instead of down the middle as designed), creating an erosion issue. Routinely cleaning waterways is easier and causes less disturbance, allowing the grass to reestablish faster. For long-term and less maintenance, installing a drain tile with risers is a more effective way of dealing with this. Much like vegetation migration, addressing a little bit at a time can help from having to do a lot at once.

Above is an example of a grass waterway in a field. Over the years, the silt has built up, and the water cannot enter it and drain down the center as it should, resulting in erosion along the edge. This will need to be cleaned out to get the water to drain into the grass area.

Water control structures like terraces and dams also require maintenance. The removal of trees and rodent control are steps to help with erosion underground. Erosion underground can lead to the complete collapse of a terrace or dam, resulting in expensive repairs.

The Case for Being Proactive
Implementing proactive measures to address the changing landscape helps maintain the land's productivity and ensures its maximum production potential. Over time, these efforts preserve the land’s overall value, even if the initial cost of repairs is significant.

Landowners may qualify for significant cost-share through the NRCS on many soil conservation projects. Contact your local Natural Resource Conservation office for information. While specific guidelines must be followed, this can be a highly cost-effective way to control erosion and vegetation growth.

If you would like more information or are interested in having your farm professionally managed, contact the Land Management Division via 1-855-800-LAND (5263)or landmanagement@peoplescompany.com.