High levels of residue in the field interfere with planting and
emergence by a combination of factors that include reduced soil
temperature and higher water content, both of which can delay field
operations and vegetative development after planting. In addition,
high-residue systems show increased weed infestation, more N immobilization
due to the high C/N ratio of corn stover, and more inoculum
formany common corn diseases . To formulate decision
support systems for producers interested in this residue management
alternative, the amount of residues available for removal should
be carefully determined taking into account the combined effects of
soil type and topography, climatic conditions, crop rotation, tillage options,
and fertilization practices. This information is critical in the Midwest
region to discern in what systems residue harvest is possible, or
even beneficial, and at what rates. In a recent report highlighting the
achievements of the Sun Grant Regional Partnership, Karlen et al.
summarized the effect of three levels of residue harvest on
grain yield and nutrient removal from several sites around this maizeintensive
region