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A Revolutionary Vision for Modern Farming

"Two-year corn-and-soy rotation field (left) and four-year rotation field covered in alfalfa (right). Both were photographed in early September, 2012. By using cover crops like alfalfa, researchers could dramatically reduce herbicide, pesticide and fertilizer use without sacrificing productivity. Photo: David Sundberg

What they’re doing on Marsden Farm isn’t organic. It’s not industrial, either. It’s a hybrid of the two, an alternative version of agriculture for the 21st century: smart, green and powerful.

On this farm in Boone County, Iowa, in the heart of corn country, researchers have borrowed from both approaches, using traditional techniques and modern chemicals to get industrial yields — but without industrial consequences."

read more via wired.com

The Marsden Farm Experiment Research Article   

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0 responses   //   Posted 7 months ago

Perennial Grains Could Revolutionize Agriculture

Wheat Field, Pullman, Washington courtesy pullman-wa.com 

The grain crops that we humans depend on daily to hold body and soul together are annual crops have to be planted every year. They germinate, bear their delicious product, and then die off ; the following year, a brand new crop is put in to take their place. 
Such annual crops are high in yield, but they require vast amounts of artificial fertilizer, and their impermanence contributes to soil erosion.

 Perennial grain crops, if they existed, could require less fuel, less fertilizer, less herbicide and pesticide, and help prevent erosion by remaining deeply rooted in the soil throughout the winter (and indeed for years). Perennials return nutrients to the soil, where annuals require artificial fertilizers to supplement depleted soil, and return nothing. According to a paper in the current issue of Science, perennial grains, currently being researched at a number of universities, including Washington State University (WSU), could become the norm within two decades.
via popsci.com

 

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0 responses   //   Posted over 1 year ago

Symbols of the Tea Party Movement

"Beginning in 2009, the Gadsden flag has become a favorite among the Tea Party movement nationwide, serving as an alternative to the stars and stripes for Tea Party protesters who feel patriotism for their country and are upset at the government. It was also seen being displayed by members of Congress at Tea Party rallies. Some lawmakers have dubbed it a political symbol due to the Tea Party connection, and the political nature of Tea Party supporters.  

The Second Revolution flag gained national attention on January 19, 2010. It is a version of the Betsy Ross American flag, with a Roman Numeral II in the center of the circle of 13 stars, symbolizing the second Revolution in America. The Second Revolution flag has been called synonymous with Tea Party causes and events."

via en.wikipedia.org

 

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0 responses   //   Posted almost 2 years ago