Establishing the Perennial Grain Center in the Climate Transition Zone of Tennessee: Pathways Towards Sustainable Food Production and Soil Health

Abstract – MTSU Subaward Edwin Ritchey, PI – “Establishing the Perennial Grain Center in the Climate Transition Zone of Tennessee: Pathways towards Sustainable Food Production and Soil Health” I propose to collaborate with MTSU at The Land Institute applying for the NLGCA grant (due Dec. 1) to study the effects of Kernza® on soil health, their medicinal and fermentation benefits. I will establish small field plots to grow Kernza® in KY. Tasks include the planting, soil sampling, etc. For the planting, we will need 18 plots measuring 5 x 15 m (3 treatments [Kernza®, perennial sorghum, silflower] x 2 pair x 3 replicates). MTSU will provide all seeds needed.