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In crops
- Helped farmers evaluate switchgrass on CRP land for use as a new energy source (co-firing) as part of the Chariton Valley Biomass power project.
- Researched bio-control methods for white mold in soybean
- Supported soybean cyst nematode surveys in several Iowa counties.
- Explored composted swine manure/weed/corn/soybean interactions; compost tends to increase competitive effects of common waterhemp, especially when weed emergence coincides with crop emergence.
- Evaluated delivery and distribution uniformity of anhydrous ammonia manifold outlet ports and recommended performance improvements.
- Exploring the differences between various kinds of soil phosphorus (P) tests..
- Supported the development and maintenance of new and existing food supply chains, opening new markets for Iowa farmers.
- Worked with agencies and farm groups evaluating use of buffer strips to preserve water quality.
- Assessed farmer risks/gains for adding zinc fertilizer as yield insurance; showed that it is effective only if tests say soil is lacking zinc.
- Evaluated organic pest management treatments for bean leaf beetle.
In livestock
- Established management strategies for farmers who are trying to graze beef cows for niche markets; including guidelines on stockpiled grazing to help reduce winter feed costs, improve cattle condition scores, and decrease soil compaction.
- Funded first extensive studies showing effectiveness of low-cost hooped hog houses for use by Iowa hog producers.
- Evaluated uniformity of solid manure spreader rates to determine how to improve spreader patterns.
- Evaluated delivery and distribution uniformity of anhydrous ammonia manifold outlet ports and recommended performance improvements.
- Opened value-added marketing grid opportunities for southern Iowa beef producers through support of the Chariton Valley Beef Initiative.
- Funded on-farm research carried out by several Iowa producer groups.
- Supported local food projects that encourage institutions and restaurants to purchase locally grown and processed fruits, vegetables, and meat.
- Supported the development and maintenance of new and existing food supply chains, opening new markets for Iowa farmers.
- Worked with agencies and farm groups evaluating use of buffer strips to preserve water quality.
What is 'agriculture of the middle'?
Leopold Center director Fred Kirschenmann explains in his Spring Leopold Letter column.
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