ST. PAUL — Minnesota officials are offering to pay farmers who leave corn stalks standing along highways this winter to help keep snow from drifting.

The state Department of Transportation said stalks can break the wind’s force and limit snow from blowing onto roads. Farmers can earn money on a per-acre basis if they leave six to 20 rows of corn stalks standing.

The department is especially looking for farmers with fields to the north and west of highways where snow drifting often causes problem. Farmers make a one-season commitment from October until mid-April.