Transforming Wool into Soil Amendments for Berry Production: A Market and Field Study for Midwest Sheep and Berry Farmers

Commodities

Practices

This project addresses two critical challenges: the economic struggle of sheep producers regarding wool and the need for alternative sources of organic matter to replace peat moss in berry production. Wool, often discarded or sold at low value, will be transformed into pelletized soil amendments for strawberry and blueberry crops. This proposed solution benefits both sheep producers and berry farmers by creating a new market for wool and improving soil health in berry fields. The project has three main objectives: (1) Conduct a feasibility study with Iowa and Wisconsin sheep producers to assess wool pelletization as a profitable strategy; (2) Perform field trials to determine optimal application rates of wool pellets in strawberry and blueberry production; (3) Foster partnerships between sheep producers, berry farmers, and school gardens to further demonstrate and promote the use of wool pellets.

Expected outcomes include increased economic opportunities for sheep producers through wool pelletization and a sustainable alternative to peat moss for berry producers. These outcomes are relevant to farmers in the North Central Region, as the project addresses both waste animal product reduction and sustainable soil cultivation practices. Fostering collaboration between sheep and berry producers will promote regenerative practices across agricultural sectors, ultimately enhancing economic viability and environmental stewardship for many rural businesses.

Objectives:

1. Assess the feasibility of pelletizing wool as an alternative revenue source for Midwest sheep producers.
2. Conduct field trials to determine optimal rates of wool pellets in berry production.
3. Foster partnerships between sheep producers, berry farmers, and school gardens to trial wool pellets.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Sheep and berry producers gain knowledge of wool pellet benefits and skills in applying them.
2. Schools increase awareness of sustainable agricultural practices.

Action Outcomes:

1. Sheep producers pelletize wool as a new revenue stream.
2. Berry farmers adopt wool pellets for soil improvement.
3. Schools implement wool pellets in gardens.

System-Wide Outcomes (3-5 Years):

1. A determination of if there is available market for pelletized wool as a soil amendment will be established.
2. Increased awareness and interest of sustainable soil amendments that reduce dependence on nonrenewable resources for horticulture crops.
3. Strengthened partnerships between livestock and horticultural industries that will enhance resource efficiency and overall farm sustainability.