The University of Vermont (UVM) researchers are testing innovative practices to improve the sustainability of dairy farming in Vermont, USA. Their study examines methods like cover cropping and no-till planting to reduce environmental impact, improve soil health, and increase resilience to extreme weather conditions caused by climate change.
Researchers at the University of Vermont (UVM) are exploring innovative ways to make dairy farming more sustainable. The study, led by research associate professor Joshua Faulkner, is part of a six-year, multi-state research project focused on reducing the environmental impact of dairy farming while improving resilience to extreme weather events. This initiative seeks to balance farm productivity with environmental sustainability, addressing the challenges posed by climate change, soil health, and greenhouse gas emissions in the United States.
The UVM research team is investigating a variety of farming practices, including cover cropping, no-till planting, and tailored fertilization. These practices are aimed at improving soil health, reducing nutrient runoff, and decreasing greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, the research evaluates how these practices can help mitigate the impact of severe weather events like flooding, which has become more frequent in Vermont due to climate change.
Adapting to Extreme Weather Challenges
Vermont’s dairy farmers have faced increasing challenges from climate change, especially after catastrophic flooding in July 2023 caused $69 million in agricultural damages, including significant losses in feed crops. The flooding also resulted in a spike in phosphorus levels in local rivers, highlighting the urgent need for alternative farming practices to reduce agricultural runoff.
As part of the ongoing study, UVM researchers are measuring various environmental indicators such as soil bulk density, carbon concentration, and water-holding capacity at test sites in St. Albans and Bridport. The project also examines the effectiveness of advanced techniques, such as injecting manure directly into the soil, compared to traditional farming practices.
Research associate professor Joshua Faulkner posed the question: “Can a dairy farm sequester as much carbon as it emits? Can it be net zero?” This question underscores the complexity of balancing sustainability with farm productivity.
Collaboration with Other Universities
The UVM study is part of the larger Dairy, Soil, and Water Regeneration Project, a collaborative effort between the Soil Health Institute and six other universities across the United States, including institutions in Wisconsin, Texas, Idaho, and California. The project is investigating how different farming practices impact water quality, crop yields, greenhouse gas emissions, and economic outcomes.
Graduate student Molly Ratliff is leading research on greenhouse gas emissions. Her work has focused on measuring levels of carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, particularly in waterlogged fields caused by prolonged flooding. These unusual methane emissions result from oxygen-starved microbes in saturated soils, highlighting the challenges farmers face in dealing with climate-induced changes.
Preserving Soil and Water Resources
Soil erosion and nutrient loss, particularly during winter thaw and rain-on-snow events, are major concerns for Vermont’s dairy farms. Practices like cover cropping are essential in stabilizing soil and reducing runoff. Water quality specialist Ben Tutko emphasized that runoff can occur year-round, not just during active farming periods.
The research team is exploring how soil health and water management practices can address these issues while also improving farm resilience in the face of climate challenges.
A Greener Future for Dairy Farming
While conclusive results are expected in the coming year, the study represents the first comprehensive effort to assess carbon sequestration and emissions across U.S. dairy systems. The findings from this research will provide valuable insights for farmers, enabling them to adopt sustainable practices suited to their specific regions.
Faulkner expressed optimism for the future, saying, “We’re taking a whole-systems approach for the first time. This rigorous documentation will provide the tools to make dairy farming sustainable, both economically and environmentally.”
As Vermont’s dairy farmers continue to face the uncertainties of climate change, the research offers hope for a more resilient and sustainable dairy industry in the state and across the United States.