Western Illinois University's Alternative Crops Research Program

Mission: The Alternative Crops Research Program at Western Illinois University was established in August 2000 to investigate new crops for the Midwest and help revitalize the local economies.  The goal of the program is to provide alternative crops that can fit into the corn and soybean rotations already in place to assist with pest problems and to increase crop diversity.  Initial studies will evaluate the available germplasm for desired characteristics and develop production guidelines for the Midwest region.  Long-term studies will focus on improving yields and adapting crops to the current corn and soybean rotations. 

News:      2008 Field Day held on July 17th, 2008- new photos!

                2006 Update on Mechanical Milkweed Harvesting!

  - WIU program shines spotlight on alternative crops

     Illinois’ first commercial milkweed field harvested  

©2008 All photographs and content included at this website are protected by Western Illinois University. 

  Comments concerning this web site may be directed to WB-Phippen@wiu.edu (309-298-1251).

Last revised: August 21, 2008