RAY, N.D. — The Justin and Sara Jacobs family farm is at the forefront of a farming practice that’s transforming agriculture: intercropping.
“Intercropping is about growing two or more crops together within the same field,” says Justin Jacobs. “It’s not just about maximizing yield but also enhancing soil health and reducing inputs and the risk of pests.”
The Jacobs family’s journey into intercropping began in 2017, inspired by listening to Lana Shaw, research manager at the Southeast Research Farm in Saskatchewan, and visiting Derek Axten’s farm, which focuses on enhancing soil biodiversity and creating a thriving environment for food production. Since then, they have experimented with various crop combinations, continually refining their techniques.
“Having a strategy is crucial,” Justin Jacobs explains. “Our best wheat crops have always followed our intercrop, showing the long-term benefits of this practice.”
The family farm’s timeline of trials and successes is a testament to their dedication. From a modest start in 2016, they have grown their operation to 750 acres. They’ve experimented with different combinations, including peas and canola, and peas and flax, learning valuable lessons along the way.
Read more via the NRCS website here: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/news/north-dakota-producer-spotlight-intercropping-innovators
