Southern Iowa Biomass Crop Workshop
17 February 2012
US - There is increasing interest in biomass crops for energy in Iowa. Initially, it was thought that strong commodity prices would limit the interest of growers in planting perennials for bioenergy, but that doesn't seem to be the case.
A Biomass Crop Production workshop at Southwestern Community College in Creston, Iowa will explore why interest is increasing. The program will take place on Thursday, March 8.
Workshop participants will learn about opportunities to grow and market profitable biomass crops that are adapted to southern Iowa soils and climate.
The Southern Iowa Resource Conservation and Development Area has been working with Iowa State University and the Iowa Farm Energy Working Group to evaluate biomass crops, including giant Miscanthus and warm season grasses that can be used to produce renewable energy feedstocks.
Two companies are cooperating in this joint venture, with plans to create businesses that convert biomass to anhydrous ammonia and energy pellets. Collectively, these renewable energy enterprises would consume 54,000 acres of energy crops and create over 50 new jobs.
Workshop participants will also learn more about the USDA initiative called the Biomass Crop Assistance Program that provides cost share incentives for producers to establish, grow and harvest energy crops.
The morning session will focus on using perennial grasses, such as Miscanthus, and other biomass crops for energy production. Iowa State specialists will focus on species selection, agronomics and the best fit in southern Iowa agricultural systems.
Representatives from ShowMe Energy and SynGest will discuss using perennial grasses as homegrown energy, markets and industry demand. The afternoon program features topics on fuels and chemicals from biomass as well as federal support for bioenergy programs.
For registration information visit the website.
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