Research
Grasses - which include almost all animal forage and the majority of human foods - are the foundation of agriculture, and the most economically important crops for nearly all societies.
We research production, processing, and distribution from grass dominant agro-ecologies, such as grasslands, pastures, silvopastures, and intercropping. We consider how and where grasses can be useful to society while preserving or enhancing ecological functions and biodiversity, and how to design and implement cropland-to-grassland land use conversions that contribute to solving the climate crisis while providing improved income for farmers.
Carbon Sequestration
Grasslands and perennial grass crops can sequester substantial atmospheric carbon as root biomass and soil.
We quantify the sequestration capacities of grasslands and grass crops in ways that are transparent, traceable, and meaningful.
Bridging the Terrestrial-Aquatic Divide
Human food systems on land influence and depend upon aquatic ecosystems, processes, and fisheries. As our population grows, and extreme climate events diminish production, it is increasingly necessary to distribute and diversify food production across both land and water.
We work with partners across aquaculture, mariculture, agriculture, and energy to develop animal feeds that integrate terrestrial and aquatic supply chains. In the process we seek to increase food system resilience by maximizing conversion efficiency, minimizing disruptions, and eliminating emissions.
info [at] grasslandinstitute.org