Cover crop impact on crop production and nutrient loss in a no-till terrace topography

Increased emphasis on implementation of conservation practices (terraces, conservation tillage including no-till or reduced tillage, and cover crops [CC]) have led to the integration of best management practices. However, research on integration of best management practices is limited. Therefore, a field trial was established at the University of Missouri Grace Greenley Research Center near Leonard, Missouri, to evaluate the effects of terraces with landscape positions and CCs on soil health parameters, CC biomass accrual, and no-till corn (Zea mays L.)–soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merr.) yields. Additionally, total suspended solids (TSS), nitrate-nitrogen (NO3-N), and total phosphorus (TP) export and discharge were evaluated from terraces with or without CCs. Six parallel terraces were installed at 36.5 m spacing with each consisting of an individual underground tile outlet. Soybean was planted in 2016 and 2018, and a CC blend was overseeded at R6. Corn was planted in 2017 and cereal rye (Secale cereal L.) CC was drill-seeded after corn harvest. Soil health parameters had significant (p