FFAR Project 2nd Annual Meeting

Row Crops to Perennial Pasture: Feeding the World, Conserving Water, Enhancing Soil, and Safeguarding the Climate

Our team recently held our 2nd Annual Meeting for the Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research (FFAR)-funded project, "Row Crops to Perennial Pasture: Feeding the World, Conserving Water, Enhancing Soil, and Safeguarding the Climate." The meeting brought together researchers, industry partners, and producers to share progress, strengthen collaborations, and connect research with practical agricultural applications.

The meeting included a tour of Bamert Seed Company, where participants learned about the company's seed production, processing, and facilities. We sincerely thank Bamert Seed Company for hosting our team and sharing their expertise. Attendees also visited the farm of Kelly Ketner, who generously welcomed the group and shared his experience implementing perennial pasture systems within his operation. Seeing these management practices in a working agricultural setting provided valuable insight into the opportunities and challenges producers face, reinforcing the importance of conducting research that is both practical and producer-driven. As a valued project partner, Cactus Feeders joined the meeting to discuss ongoing research activities and collaboration. Partnerships with industry leaders play a critical role in ensuring research addresses real-world challenges while supporting the adoption of innovative, science-based solutions.

As the project enters its next year, the research team will continue evaluating perennial pasture systems across partner sites, building on the strong relationships established with producers and industry collaborators. Together, these partnerships are helping develop practical, science-based solutions for a more resilient and sustainable future for agriculture.