Assessing the suitability of Kernza® as a dual-purpose crop for Atlantic Canadian agriculture and climate action plans

With very few of the plant species used in agriculture supplying 90% of global food production, this lack of diversity exposes vulnerability to changes in climate (Kang and Banga, 2013; Labeyrie et al, 2021). Recent recognition has been given to perennial plants for agricultural use because of their resilience to dynamic conditions and contribution to ecosystem services (Sanford et al, 2021; Zhang et al, 2011). In comparison to annuals, perennials provide more continual ground cover, reduced soil disturbance, and have been suggested to require fewer synthetic inputs that are linked to negative environmental impacts (Crews et al, 2018; Pimentel et al, 2012). This project will assess the suitability of a novel perennial wheat, Kernza®, as a crop in Atlantic Canada by utilizing diversified research test plots, field trials, and developing applicable crop rotations. Identifying a perennial crop for local agriculture has the potential to significantly impact industry climate action plans.

Faculty Supervisor:

Andrew Hammermeister;Travis Esau;Aaron Mills

Student:

Partner:

Atlantic Grains Council

Discipline:

Earth science

Sector:

Agriculture

University:

Dalhousie University

Program: