Center research results from 2007-8 available
Summaries of 25 research projects that completed their work appear in the 2008 Center Progress Report, recently published by the Leopold Center.
From the Ecology Initiative come reports on:
- Bird nesting in grazing areas
- Fertilizer and phosphorus management strategies
- Developing insect resistance in potatoes
- Natural seed treatments for corn
- Observations of wildlife at Whiterock Conservancy
Marketing and Food Systems Initiative investigators reported on:
- Agricultural entrepreneurship among immigrant populations
- Business tips for niche hog marketing
- Business analysis for small meat processors
- Economic feasibility of pasture-based dairy operations
- Greenhouses and aquaculture in conjunction with Iowa’s ethanol plants
- Organic, natural and grass-fed beef prospects
Policy Initiative projects that were completed included:
- Survival strategy for small and medium-sized farms
- Fostering an effective green payment program
- A platform for performance-based stewardship
Summaries are condensed from final reports submitted by principal investigators, who approved them prior to publication. Contact information appears at the end of each summary for those who want more information from the principal investigator.
Support for the competitive grants administered by the Center is provided through the state of Iowa educational appropriations and from the state’s Agriculture Management Account, generated from fees charged on nitrogen fertilizers and pest control chemicals sold in Iowa.
Copies of the 2008 Center Progress Report can be ordered from the Center office at (515) 294-3711, or email leocenter@iastate.edu.