Perennial Plants Take Root at Iowa State

August 3, 2015

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Heaton miscanthus (2)
Emily Heaton, associate professor of agronomy and extension biomass specialist Source: Iowa State University

Iowa State University (ISU) is at the forefront of agricultural research, investing in innovative projects that will improve the future of sustainability, both in Iowa and across the globe.

One such project is the study of giant perennial grasses like miscanthus, which can be used to create biomass and when planted on marginal and subprime land, prevent soil erosion and protect water quality.

Researchers at ISU believe that planting miscanthus not only has a number of environmental benefits but can also result in a higher yield of crops, increasing profitability.

For more on Iowa State’s agricultural research and the need for increased funding in this area, see President Steven Leath’s feature post here.


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August 3, 2015