Improving Agricultural Sustainability through Crop Diversification

Project Overview

LNC01-193
Project Type: Research and Education
Funds awarded in 2001: $97,800.00
Projected End Date: 12/31/2003
Region: North Central
State: Missouri
Project Coordinator:
Robert Myers
Email
Jefferson Institute

Information Products

Commodities

  • Agronomic: canola, sunflower

Practices

  • Crop Production: double cropping
  • Education and Training: demonstration, farmer to farmer
  • Farm Business Management: budgets/cost and returns, marketing management
  • Natural Resources/Environment: biodiversity
  • Production Systems: general crop production

    Abstract:

    This project was aimed at developing alternative crops for Missouri, allowing corn and soybean farmers to diversify their crop rotations. The approach involved contacting farmers directly about growing the crops, arranging market options, assisting the farmers with how to grow the crops, and evaluating the crops’ economic performance. We also developed a variety of educational and outreach programs in conjunction with this project, and conducted market evaluation and development.

    Introduction:

    Project objectives:

    Our objectives were to:
    1) Have farmers try alternative crops on their farms
    2) Evaluate the economic performance of these alternatives in Missouri
    3) Develop field tours in conjunction with these crops
    4) Hold workshops and seminars on the alternative crops
    5) Develop or refine educational print and internet materials on the crops
    6) Evaluate marketing opportunities and begin market development

    Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the U.S. Department of Agriculture or SARE.