Every year, PCM analyzes field-level data from enrolled Illinois corn and soybean fields to determine which conservation practices are profitable.

This year’s report — the 2026 Business Case for Conservation — draws on 11 years of data from more than 6,800 Illinois fields across 448,000 acres. The findings are clear, timely, and directly relevant to anyone farming in today’s lower-price, higher-cost environment.

Here’s what the data is showing:

Tillage: Less Is More

Across 11 years of data, the pattern is consistent: Less tillage means lower costs and stronger returns. There’s a clear case for pulling back on tillage passes and protecting your margins in the process.

Nitrogen: Check Your Rates

Despite near-record high nitrogen fertilizer prices in 2025, 68% of high-SPR corn acres in our dataset received more than 200 lbs N/a. And yet, in all 11 years of PCM’s data analysis, the most profitable N rate has always been below 200 lbs N/a total nitrogen applied.

Cover Crops: Details Matter

Cover crops improve soil health, reduce erosion, and increase water holding capacity.But they also cost money to grow. If you’re considering cover crops, talk to your PCM Specialist or another trusted advisor first. It’s a worthwhile venture, but the details matter.

Read the Full Report

The 2026 Business Case for Conservation is available now as a free download. It will also be included as an insert in the June issue of Prairie Farmer Magazine.

Read the full 2026 PCM Data Book →

🎥 Want to dig into the data even more?
Watch Dr. Laura Gentry and Dr. Gary Schnitkey discuss insights from the latest data here:

Want to see what this data means for your own fields? PCM enrollment is free, and a local Specialist is ready to help you apply these findings to your specific operation.

Connect with a PCM Specialist → PrecisionConservation.org/farmers