Strategic switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) production within row cropping systems: Regional scale assessment of soil erosion loss and water runoff impacts, 2020

Strategic planting of switchgrass in row crop systems, especially on slopes over 10%, significantly reduces soil erosion by more than 50% in the most vulnerable Midwest landscapes, while it only has a modest effect on water runoff. Modeling with the Daily Erosion Project shows that perennials planted on erosive slopes provide significantly greater soil conservation benefits, confirming the importance of targeting these areas rather than converting entire fields. Notably, these conservation benefits increase with higher annual rainfall and steeper slopes, offering an efficient way to protect soil and produce feedstock for bioenergy markets. The findings indicate that policies supporting the strategic placement of perennials not only preserve farm profitability but also help sustain long-term soil and water resources at regional levels.