Prairie strips can rapidly improve soil health

Prairie strips can improve measures of soil health faster than expected, according to new research by Iowa State University scientists working in cooperation with the Soil Health Institute. Earlier studies have shown that prairie strips established in approximately 10% of a field can significantly increase biodiversity and pollinator habitat, reduce erosion and improve water quality. However, strips’ impacts on soil health have remained largely unexamined until now. Findings published recently in the Journal of Soil and Water Conservation showed that prairie strips improved a number of soil health measures within 10-12 years. 

Exploring blueberry pathogens, building research skills

Emma Alstott, senior in global resource systems and horticulture, is working to address an issue that blueberry growers in southern Iowa brought to her Science with Practice mentor, Suzanne Slack.

Refining poinsettia tree production through hands-on research

Rachel Becker, a senior in horticulture, used her Science with Practice involvement to dive into poinsettia tree production, all while discovering a side of research she didn’t know existed. 

Shedding light on shifting land markets

Caroline Strawhacker, a junior in agricultural business, agronomy and economics, used her Science with Practice involvement to help people navigate changes in the land market, drawing from her agricultural background and economic passion.

Destructive maize weevil inspires student’s research journey

Under the supervision of Carl Bern, emeritus university professor of agricultural and biosystems engineering, Keith Urmie was tasked with quantifying how much maize weevils could eat per day under ideal growth conditions. He completed the research for his Honors program capstone project during his undergraduate studies in agricultural engineering at Iowa State University.