Integrating Perennial Groundcover in Corn and Soybean Acres: Impacts on U.S. Agriculture

ABSTRACT Sustainable agricultural practices such as cover cropping can improve soil health, water quality, and carbon sequestration, yet U.S. adoption remains limited due to economic and operational barriers. We evaluate market and economic impacts of integrating perennial groundcover into U.S. corn and soybean production under six yield and cost scenarios. Results show that impacts depend on whether yields are maintained and costs remain stable. Under the most optimistic scenario, long‐term outcomes remain close to or slightly above baseline levels. In contrast, scenarios involving yield losses or sustained cost increases generate negative economic outcomes, highlighting the importance of agronomic performance and cost control.