This project examines the intersections of ecology and agriculture. We have established an experimental agriculture plot seeded with several treatments: wheat, alfalfa, prairie grass, forage grass, and Kernza. Kernza is a new hybrid perennial grain crop developed by the Land Institute (Kansas). My portion of the project will measure Soil Organic Carbon accrual,  soil aggregation, and nutrient retention within the parameters of the plot. Within agricultural soils, the profile of soil organic carbon (SOC), soil aggregation, and associated nutrients have broader ecologic ramifications: CO2 emissions, biodiversity (above and below ground), pollution, and climate change. 

The samples will be taken with coring implements and then analyzed at the Chicago Botanic Garden. Interns can expect to spend half the time out at the plot in Mettawa, IL and at CBG. We will also be maintaining the crops which includes tasks such as weeding, watering, and potentially harvesting.