The research project, “Breeding Alfalfa for Intercropping with Intermediate Wheatgrass: Towards perennial grain-forage systems,” is moving into the outreach portion and they are requesting feedback from Kansas alfalfa growers.

The researchers are working to better understand optimal nitrogen application rates as well as other major agronomic questions for an alfalfa-intermediate wheatgrass intercropping system. They are evaluating and selecting for alfalfa that performs well when planted with intermediate wheatgrass. Virtual interviews with growers and other industry stakeholders are an important part of this project to get feedback about how this research can be most beneficial to growers and potential growers interested in this system, or similar systems.

This outreach is being conducted by Emily Fratz, Cornell University. The interviews would be virtual and would take place via Zoom or by phone call. The interview would be scheduled at a mutually convenient time within the next several months and would last approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour. If you might be interested in participating, please contact Emily directly by phone, (301) 501-7097 or by email at ef389@cornell.edu.

“Breeding Alfalfa for Intercropping with Intermediate Wheatgrass: Towards perennial grain-forage systems,” is a collaborative effort of Ginny Moore, Cornell University; Brandon Schlautman, The Land Institute, Salina, KS; Jake Jungers and Jared Joplen, University of Minnesota; Valentin Picasso, University of Wisconsin; and Heathcliffe Riday, USDA-ARS Dairy Forage Research Center.​

At project end, the researchers anticipate sharing specific adaptation and crop management knowledge gained from the study with the interview participants and a broader relevant audience through online informational resources. The interviews will help shape what will be researched and shared.