Cover crops in vegetables

The project brings together Co-op Agrobonsens, a collective initiative towards sustainable agriculture solutions, and the municipalities of Jardins-de-Napierville in Montérégie, Quebec.

Across the region, both black and mineral soils face significant challenges, including wind erosion, loss of organic matter, compaction and water management. Cover crops are recognized for addressing these challenges, yet their adoption remains limited. The project aims to assess their potential for broader integration in the region and develop an MRV framework (measurement, reporting and verification) to quantify their environmental benefits.

1. Establish a 2026 baseline for cover crop acreage across the Jardins-de-Napierville municipalities.
2. Assess the potential for integrating these practices.
3. Develop an environmental indicator framework aligned with the needs of farmers, the market and the financial sector.
4. Propose an MRV methodology for measuring environmental outcomes.

Led by the Quebec vegetable growers Association (APMQ), the cover crops expertise network brings together several organizations, including FoodBridge, to support the adoption of cover crops on vegetable farms and strengthen knowledge across the sector.

1. Document the adoption of cover crops on vegetable farms across Quebec.
2. Share successful practices among farmers.
3. Organize on-farm demonstrations to support the integration of these practices.