Erosion control and afforestation
Foxtail millet is a quick growing species that can be grown in contour strips for erosion control. The stubble left after hay harvest provides an excellent winter soil cover and a protective seedbed for stubble seeding of the following crop (FAO, 2011; Brink, 2006).
Foxtail millet is recommended in the “Forestry Reclamation Approach”, which consists of growing tree seedlings under the cover of fast-growing grass species. However, foxtail millet can inhibit the recruitment of native species during its first year and may attract rodents and deer, which may be harmful to tree seedlings (Burger et al., 2009).
Biodiversity
Foxtail millet may be useful as a wildlife planting to provide food and cover for doves, quails and other birds (Rasnake et al., 2005).
Global warming
Foxtail millet may help to alleviate the effects of global warming as it can be grown in drier areas than other cereal crops (Brink, 2006).