SWFF practices no-till and strip till for many reasons.  When we no-till, the only operations that go across the field are spraying, planting, harvesting.  We even try to fertilize, spray, and plant in one single pass to reduce fuel consumption and hours on equipment.  Reducing tillage practices has cut our fuel consumption considerably while improving yield and soil health.  
The picture shown here is what a strip-tilled corn field looks like.  We use a knife to apply fertilizer and create a seedbed.  The knife is engaged into the soil about 10" deep and leaves a 6-8" wide strip of soil.  We then plant right on top of the strip.  The fertilizer zone is located just below the roots for efficient nutrient uptake.  The residue from the previous crop remains on top of the soil to protect the soil from erosion.  The residue acts as a mulch to keep the soil from drying out and blowing.  Every drop of moisture is important in Southwest Kansas.

At SWFF we also No-till as much as possible.  We have invested substantial capital in equipment that aids in conserving crop residue and soil moisture.  No-till has proven to be beneficial year after year.  To the left is a picture of a Shelbourne Reynolds stripper head.  This wheat header strips the very top of the wheat plant off, leaving everything standing in the field expect the wheat heads.  The tall, standing stubble aids in catching snow in the winter and shades the ground from the hot summer sun. 

 Another sustainable farming practice that we implemented over 10 years ago is Variable Rate Technology (VRT).  You can learn more about VRT and how it impacts our production under the 'About Us' tab by clicking on 'Technology.'  VRT has allowed us to maximize our land's potential by placing fertilizer and other chemicals where they are needed.  Our overall fertilizer consumption has been reduced by using this technology.