By Andi Anderson
Iowa Learning Farms, in collaboration with Horizon II Climate-Smart Partners, is hosting a Winter Cereal Rye Field Day on Wednesday, September 11, from 5-7 p.m. at Iowa State University’s McNay Memorial Research and Demonstration Farm near Chariton.
This free event is open to farmers and landowners, offering valuable insights into the establishment and management of cereal rye as a cover crop, forage, and feedstock.
The field day will focus on helping farmers and landowners establish and manage cereal rye and similar overwinter species effectively. Cereal rye, as a cover crop, plays a crucial role in reducing soil erosion, minimizing nutrient loss, and enhancing soil organic matter.
Additionally, it provides the benefit of potential weed suppression. Beyond its role in soil health, cereal rye also serves as a high-quality forage, offering excellent grazing opportunities for livestock.
Mark Licht, an associate professor and cropping systems specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach, will kick off the event with a discussion on best management practices for establishing and managing cereal rye to meet the diverse goals of producers.
Shelby Gruss, a forage specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach, will follow with insights into successfully utilizing cereal rye for grazing and forage.
The event will also explore innovative uses for harvested winter biomass crops like cereal rye. Dan Andersen, an associate professor and extension agriculture engineering specialist at Iowa State, will present ongoing research on using cereal rye biomass in anaerobic digesters for renewable fuel generation.
This aspect of the field day will highlight the potential of cereal rye to contribute to renewable energy efforts while supporting sustainable farming practices.
The field day will take place rain or shine at the ISU McNay Memorial Research and Demonstration Farm, located at 45249 170th Ave., Chariton. The event is free, but space is limited, so reservations are required to ensure adequate space and meal availability.
Attendees are encouraged to RSVP by September 5 by contacting Liz Ripley at 515-294-5429 or ilf@iastate.edu. As an added bonus, attendees will be entered into a drawing for ISU Prairie Strips honey.
This field day presents a unique opportunity for Iowa farmers and landowners to gain practical knowledge and explore the benefits of integrating cereal rye into their operations for both agricultural and environmental gains.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-eugenesergeev
Categories: Iowa, Crops