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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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Harvest Sample Program Webinar 2026

Video: Harvest Sample Program Webinar 2026

Discover the Harvest Sample Program — a free, voluntary way to get unofficial grade and quality results for your crops. Watch the latest discussion from our recorded webinar with the Canadian Grain Commission to learn how to submit samples, receive your results online, and leverage these insights for your marketing plan. ?We covered important submission deadlines, the types of analyses you’ll receive, and how the results can inform your sales - and the broader Canadian grain sector. Additional information about our Grade School event presented by the Canadian Grain Commission was discussed, providing you with more opportunities to learn about grades, dockage and so much more! Grade School 2026 will be hosted this November in Humboldt and Swift Current.