To meet the objective, we took three distinct approaches: (1) benefit-cost analysis, (2) integrated model
analysis, and (3) representative farm analysis using the linear programming model PC-LP. Each approach
was a different take on the same issue; however, each provided different information. First, we estimated
cover crop costs and agronomic benefits and employed benefit-cost analyses, including stochastic analysis
in @RISK. Second, we tested cover crops with stover removal for 24 Indiana farms using PC-LP. Cover
crop costs ranged from $81.76/ha to $172.50/ha, with variability being driven by differences in the seeding
rate and seed cost. Agronomic benefits included reduced erosion, which was calculated using a newly
created integrated modeling system.