By Scout Nelson
Prairie strips, or conservation strips, are gaining popularity in Kansas due to their potential benefits in farming. These strips, containing forbs and grasses, are strategically planted to attract a variety of insects, which enhance the ecosystem and reduce the need for pesticides.
Tania Kim, an assistant professor in entomology at Kansas State University, is at the forefront of this research. Taking cues from studies conducted by Iowa State University, which highlighted benefits such as improved water quality, reduced soil erosion, and increased carbon sequestration, Kim's work focuses on adapting these strips to Kansas' drier landscapes.
A key interest for Kim is the impact of prairie strips on soybean crops. While crops like wheat and corn may not rely heavily on pollinators, soybeans do, and prairie strips could significantly boost their pollination. These strips attract beneficial insects that help in pest control, reducing the reliance on chemical pesticides.
Interestingly, prairie strips don't just attract pollinators. They also bring in decomposers like ground beetles, dung beetles, and ants, which help in controlling weeds by feeding on their seeds. The diversity in these strips is key; a mix of perennial plants ensures floral resources are available throughout the growing season.
While establishing prairie strips requires time and effort, the long-term benefits are substantial. Reduced pest presence means less insecticide use, and natural pollination processes can be enhanced. Maintaining these strips does require some management, such as periodic mowing or prescribed burns, akin to caring for natural prairies.
Photo Credit- istock-fotokostic
Categories: Kansas, Sustainable Agriculture