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Using Less-Profitable Farmland to Grow Bioenergy Crops also Supports Biodiversity

Using Less-Profitable Farmland to Grow Bioenergy Crops also Supports Biodiversity

An analysis by Oak Ridge National Laboratory showed that using less-profitable farmland to grow bioenergy crops such as switchgrass could fuel not only clean energy, but also gains in biodiversity.

Researchers examined segments of land in the Midwest responsible for a loss of approximately $110 million per year from 2013 to 2016. If about 3% of those areas were converted to switchgrass, they could generate about 7.6 million dry tons per year of plant material for use in biofuels and bioproducts.

Growing  could also help birds, increasing  by up to 8% according to models developed by ORNL's Jasmine Kreig.

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Preparing Soil for Fruit Trees Before You Plant with Ariel Agenbroad

Video: Preparing Soil for Fruit Trees Before You Plant with Ariel Agenbroad

Preparing soil for fruit trees is one of the most important — and most overlooked — steps before planting. In this episode, I visit Spaulding Ranch in Boise, Idaho, and speak with soil specialist Ariel Agenbroad from the University of Idaho Extension. Together, we explore how to evaluate soil structure, drainage, compaction, and organic matter so your fruit trees can establish strong, healthy roots. If you're planning to plant fruit trees this season, this conversation will help you understand what to look for before you dig.