Michigan State University (MSU) has received a $750,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Institute of Food and Agriculture to study the effects of intensive rainfall and drought on soil health. Led by Professor Alexandra Kravchenko, the research team aims to assess changes in soil health in corn, soybean, and wheat production systems in the Midwest.
The team will conduct a four-year experiment at the W.K. Kellogg Biological Station in Michigan, using rainout shelters to simulate controlled precipitation conditions. They will compare conventional tillage, no-till management, and "old field" land to understand their impact on soil health. Laboratory analysis and advanced imaging technologies will be employed to assess soil structure and organic matter.
The research's ultimate goal is to provide farmers with cost-effective strategies for long-term agricultural sustainability by helping them adapt to changing rainfall patterns. The findings will contribute to a better understanding of agricultural resilience in the face of climate change, not only in the Midwest but also globally.
This grant-funded research is crucial as it will shed light on how climate change affects soil health. By understanding these effects, farmers can adjust their practices to ensure sustainable agriculture in the long run. Furthermore, this research will contribute to our knowledge of how agriculture can adapt to climate change challenges.
Photo Credit: istock-nastco
Categories: Michigan, Crops