Alternative Crops

Photos from 2009 Alternative Crops Field Day

Held July 16, 2009 from 2-4 p.m. at the

Western Illinois University Agriculture Field Laboratory

Another beautiful day for a tour!

Coolest day in July, high of only 83 F.

Welcome to the 2009 Alternative Crops Field Day!

Demonstration Plots

Dr. Win Phippen and Dr. William Bailey (Dept. Chair) gives the welcome and introduction of the days activities

Dr. Phippen discusses potential new oilseed crops for the bioenergy markets

Dr. Phippen provides an update on other oilseed and bird seed crops suitable for Illinois production.

Dr. Phippen discusses benefits of soil mining and forage radishes

Dr. Terry Isbell (USDA-Peoria) gives an update on commercialization of Field Pennycress in Illinois

Dr. Phippen reports on Cuphea and Pennycress breeding program

Dr. Phippen discusses research funded by the Illinois Soybean Association interested at examining the rotation of soybeans with pennycress

Field day participants enjoy a tractor ride.

Dr. Phippen gives an update on the progress with the Milkweed harvester and processor

Field day participants look over new milkweed processor

Dr. Phippen explains the importance of milkweed floss quality from the processor.

Follow-up questions regarding potential new crops for Illinois.