What if everything you've been told about residue breakdown is missing the biggest piece of the puzzle?

In Episode #76, Sean Nettleton is joined by Mason Claude and Dr. Cassidy Million for a deep dive into the science of residue decomposition.

They break down the biology behind decomposition, explain why microbes—not nitrogen—do the heavy lifting, and challenge common practices like tillage and UAN applications that often fail to deliver the results growers expect.

The conversation also covers how residue management impacts soil temperature, planting conditions, nutrient cycling, microbial activity, and ultimately the success of next year's crop.

Whether you're battling heavy corn residue, planting into no-till, or simply looking to improve soil function, this episode offers practical insights backed by research to help you build a more effective residue management system.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why residue breakdown starts with biology—not products

• The biggest myths surrounding residue decomposition

• Why chopping and burying residue isn't the same as breaking it down

• How carbon-to-nitrogen ratios affect decomposition

• The surprising role fungi play in residue management

• What products and practices actually move the needle

• Why soil temperature may be a better indicator of success than visual residue disappearance

• How residue management fits into a long-term soil health strategy

This is an episode that challenges conventional thinking and gives growers a practical framework for managing residue with the next crop, not just the next pass across the field, in mind.