Code
A03
Sector
Agriculture
The complete description of the NWRM
Summary

Crop rotation is the practice of growing a series of dissimilar/different types of crops in the same area in sequential seasons. Judiciously applied (i.e. selecting a suitable crop) crop rotation can improve soil structure and fertility by alternating deep-rooted and shallow-rooted plants. In turn this can reduce erosion and increase infiltration capacity, thereby reducing downstream flood risk. It gives various benefits to the soil. A traditional element of crop rotation is the replenishment of nitrogen through the use of green manure in sequence with cereals and other crops. Crop rotation also mitigates the build-up of pathogens and pests that often occurs when one species is continuously cropped. However, as crop rotation has been traditionally practiced for agronomic reasons rather than to achieve environmental and water objectives, new practices may be required to ensure water retention benefits can be achieved. Some crops such as potatoes carry greater risks of erosion due to formation of ridges and the greater area of bare soil (see for example: http://publications.naturalengland.org.uk/file/5925127770341376). Crop rotation can be used in combination with other measures when these are compatible with crop choice.

Illustration(s)

Fields in crop rotation (USA)

Source: http://www.conewagoinitiative.net/practices/farm/1296-2

Possible benefits with level
Benefits Level
BP2 - Slow runoff
Medium
BP6 - Increase infiltration and/or groundwater recharge
Medium
BP7 - Increase soil water retention
Medium
BP8 - Reduce pollutant sources
Medium
BP9 - Intercept pollution pathways
High
BP10 - Reduce erosion and/or sediment delivery
Low
BP11 - Improve soils
High
BP17 - Absorb and/or retain CO2
Medium
ES4 - Biodiversity preservation
Low
ES6 - Groundwater/aquifer recharge
Medium
ES7 - Flood risk reduction
Low
ES8 - Erosion/sediment control
Low
ES9 - Filtration of pollutants
Medium
ES11 - Aesthetic/cultural value
Medium
PO2 - Improving status of physico-chemical quality elements
Medium
PO4 - Improving chemical status and priority substances
Low
PO7 - Prevent surface water status deterioration
Medium
PO9 - Take adequate and co-ordinated measures to reduce flood risks
Low
PO11 - Better protection for ecosystems and more use of Green Infrastructure
Medium
PO12 - More sustainable agriculture and forestry
Medium

Case studies per NWRM