Research Teams
C-CHANGE: Grass2Gas is advancing research, education, and extension to support development of a new biobased value chain. The multi-institutional team is assessing ways in which perennials and winter crops can be used more widely as feedstock for anaerobic digestion. The novelty of the project lies in leveraging a successful business model based on the digestion of manure to encompass new agricultural feedstocks, more diverse products, and increased value throughout the supply chain.
The COBS (Comparison of Biofuel Cropping Systems) experiment was established in 2008 to compare biomass production, fossil fuel replacement value, and environmental impacts for continuous corn grown for grain and stover removal with (CCW) and without (CC) a rye cover crop; multi-species perennial crops grown for aboveground biomass with (PF) and without (P) fertilizer; and a conventional corn-soybean grain system (C2, S2), used as a comparison baseline. The six treatments were randomly assigned to 27 x 61 m plots in four complete blocks. Plots were designed to be individually-drained by perforated tile lines such that drainage water could be sampled from the center portion of each plot without cross-plot contamination.
STRIPS stands for Science-based Trials of Rowcrops Integrated with Prairie Strips. The project is composed of a team of scientists, educators, and extension specialists who have chosen to work together on the use of prairie strips as a farmland conservation practice. We strive to more fully understand the assembly, management, function, and value of prairie strips; to communicate our results to diverse audiences; and to assist others with the implementation of prairie strips on farm fields. Our initial research site is located at Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge near Prairie City, Iowa. We are now implementing and maintaining research and demonstration sites across the Midwest, including on private commercial farms.
ClimateSmart Commodities ‘Horizon II’ is an innovative program that compensates farmers in Iowa and Missouri for harvesting winter crops and prairie. This biomass, alongside manure and other agricultural or municipal waste, serves as a feedstock for anaerobic digesters to produce renewable energy. The program aims to advance a climate-smart agricultural system in the U.S., reducing greenhouse gas emissions from commodity production and promoting year-round ground cover. Additionally, the initiative expands existing supply chains for renewable natural gas (RNG), biofertilizers, and carbon credits, while enhancing soil health, water quality, flood control, and wildlife habitat. Supported by a USDA Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities grant and led by Roeslein Alternative Energy, Horizon II is a collaboration between fourteen partners committed to enhancing rural vitality.