Why is this research important for Alberta ag?
This study incorporates six special crops into 5-year cereal/canola/pulse rotations following a common protocol to generate thousands of samples. Research includes three major studies: controlled environment & carbon inputs, crop rotational system, and nitrogen response.
A comprehensive database will inform practical solutions for prairie growers and improve understanding of sustainability, carbon credits, crop profitability and regional information on benefit/value of individuals crops in rotations.
What benefits can producers expect from this research?
This project aims to create tools for sustainably improved farm productivity, nutrition and energy efficiency, water use, soil quality and biodiversity, by filling knowledge gaps re: cost effectiveness and CC value opportunities growers can use for cropping decisions on rotational sustainability, productivity, and product quality, as well as soil-N management by integrating special crops into rotations.
How will these research findings reach producers on-farm?
Information gathered from this research will be shared via newsletters, crop walks and field days, growers' meetings, and documentations and publications.