Minnesota farmers willing to leave a few rows of corn stalks standing this winter can earn more than if they were to harvest the corn and sell it.

In an effort to improve winter driving conditions and reduce plowing, the Minnesota Department of Transportation will again pay farmers who leave stalks in place as highway snow fences — $1.50 more per bushel than the current corn prices.

MnDOT is seeking more farmers this year with fields to the north and west sides of state highways and interstates where there is a drifting problem.

MnDOT began the program in 2001.

“If we can keep these highways clear, MnDOT can focus its plowing on other areas that need it,” said spokeswoman Jessica Weins.

It is called the Standing Corn Program. Sixteen rows of cornstalks are capable of capturing about 12,000 tons of snow over a quarter-mile area, according to MnDOT.

“Living snow fences help improve driver visibility, reduce accidents and reduce the need for snow plowing,” said Harry VanDeWiele, coordinator of MnDOT District 6 the Living Snow Fence Program.

“Snow fences also decrease the potential of ice forming on the pavement,” he said.

Effective corn rows need to be about 200 feet from the highway and agreements generally require farmers to leave 16 rows of corn in various arrangements until the end of March.

Farmers are paid by check for the estimated number of bushels in the plot at $1.50 more than the current bushel price. The price is determined by finding the current average of three local rates.

Farmers must develop a contract with MnDOT in the fall. MnDOT returns to fence sites March 31 to make sure the stalks are still there. If the area looks as described on the contract, the farmer receives a check in early April, Weins said.

Farmers may also handpick the corn, as long as the stalks are left in good condition, or opt to harvest the corn in the spring. The farmer can sell the corn harvested.

On average, Minnesota taxpayers spend about $100 million on annual snow removal; MnDOT averages $41 million.

The cost-benefit of a living snow fence is 17 to 1, meaning there is a $17 return for every program dollar spent, according to a MnDOT study.

The Standing Corn Program requires a one-year commitment. A Living Snow Fence Program is an extended 15-year option, in which MnDOT works with farmers to develop a more permanent fence with trees and shrubbery.

Anyone interested in the programs who lives in Mower, Dodge, Filmore, Freeborn, Goodhue, Houston, Olmsted, Rice, Steele, Wabasha or Winona County can contact Harry VanDeWiele at (507) 286-7593. More information is available at www.dot.state.mn.us/environment/livingsnowfence.