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Research on pennycress aims to go from weed to cash crop

Researchers are helping Midwest farmers explore what crops they might add to a traditional corn-soybean rotation. Pennycress is being studied for its potential to grow as a cash crop between soybeans and corn.

Illinois State University crop scientist and researcher Nicholas Heller showed farmers on tour at ISU’s University Farm in Lexington Aug. 15 some things learned, so far, about growing pennycress here.

This research is just part of the 440-acre crop and livestock farm in Lexington that welcomes about 3,000 visitors a year and helps educate 420 ISU ag students annually, said ISU agricultural professor Rob Rhykerd on the field day sponsored by the Illinois Soybean Association.

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Syngenta Ag Stories - Robyn McKee, Government and Industry Relations Manager

Video: Syngenta Ag Stories - Robyn McKee, Government and Industry Relations Manager

Syngenta Ag Stories - Robyn McKee, Government and Industry Relations Manager.

You don't need to grow up on a farm to build a career in Canadian agriculture. Robyn grew up in Richmond, Ontario - not on a farm, but in a community shaped by them.

Now she works at the intersection of policy, innovation, and the people who grow our food. Her drive? Making sure the right people understand what Canadian agriculture needs to thrive.

Her message to the next generation: "Agriculture today is full of possibilities - science, technology, business, communications, and policy. You're helping grow the food we eat, and it's hard to think of many things more impactful than that."