UNL awarded $1.7M for ag research

By Scout Nelson

Federal funding totaling $1.7 million has been given to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) to support its research on sustainable agriculture methods. These grants, which are a part of the $90 million Conservation Innovation Grants program of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, will support two significant research projects that center on the application of alley cropping, an agroforestry technique, and nitrogen control for sugar beet production.

UNL received a $1,116,149 grant to explore environmentally sustainable nitrogen management for sugarbeet production in Nebraska and Colorado. The university will collaborate with the Western Sugar Cooperative and work with 50 growers to identify best practices that improve sugar yields while promoting environmental sustainability.

Bijesh Maharjan, an associate professor of agronomy and horticulture at Nebraska, and Rebecca Larson, chief scientist at Western Sugar Cooperative, are leading the project. The research will build on previous studies conducted by Maharjan and is aimed at optimizing nitrogen application to ensure proper root growth and adequate sucrose levels.

In addition, a $682,335 grant will support UNL’s study of alley cropping as a sustainable land use strategy in the Midwest. Researchers will work with producers and landowners to identify the most effective tree-crop combinations, analyze the resilience of alley cropping in the face of climate challenges, and investigate policies that could promote agroforestry practices in the region.

The blending of agronomic and forestry practices through alley cropping offers numerous benefits, including soil conservation, nutrient cycling, and water management. This research is part of a broader effort by the USDA to promote voluntary conservation practices that enhance sustainable production.

Rob Lawson, NRCS state conservationist for Nebraska, highlighted UNL’s strong history in agronomical research and its role in advancing sustainable agricultural practices. “We remain committed to working with farmers, ranchers, and other partners in Nebraska to leverage resources and increase sustainable production benefits through voluntary conservation efforts,” Lawson said.
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