Agronomy research at NCROC explores the sustainability of agricultural systems in Minnesota’s north central growing region. Our region’s unique soil, water, and climate require crop production solutions that do not compromise these resources. As our climate continues to change, the goal of our research is to improve growing conditions to expand cropping options and increase yields.
Building a more competitive and sustainable agri-food market in northeastern Minnesota is a main goal of our agronomy program. Research projects are initiated through grants as well as local cooperative partnerships. Agronomy research is:
- Evaluating suitable cultivars for maximum crop production potential within the main cropping systems for the region
- Developing a more complete understanding on efficient cultivation and farm management techniques to strategically position northern Minnesota farms with quality best management strategies
- Exploring research initiatives on invasive species impacting modern agricultural production systems
Minnesota Long-Term Agricultural Research Network (LTARN)
The NCROC is also a site for the Minnesota Long-Term Agricultural Research Network (LTARN). This research project has three total site locations in the state; here in Grand Rapids, at the Southwest Research & Outreach Center (SWROC) in Lamberton, and at the Southern Research & Outreach Center (SROC) in Waseca.
Our LTARN cropping systems research investigates how crop diversity can be used to reduce risk across various landscapes and scales. Data collected is used to understand the source of variability in production output. We also utilize the data to establish guidelines for cropping system choices that improve production output and efficiency, while also addressing environmental and ecological considerations.
The LTARN is an outcome-based research, outreach, and education entity that provides for a coordinated approach to agricultural research that is geographically scalable, systems-oriented, multidisciplinary, and guided by a common vision.