Say what?

Why miscanthus? Why biomass?

I believe biomass will be required for energy and chemical use in the very near future. I know economical technologies are available to process raw biomass into usable renewable products. The problem is that there is no biomass supply available. Miscanthus is to me the best option for producing large amounts of biomass next to fast growing trees. Trees are much more of a time commitment and upfront investment than what is realistic at this time. The grass grows fast, is hearty, and is perennial.

One day there will be a need for biomass farmers. I am one today. Miscanthus has been grown in many regions, by many farmers, and for many reasons. Still, it is not produced enough to matter in the Midwest United States. Europe has been slowly advancing in this renewable energy option, hopefully the lessons learned there and in this grant can help move the biomass farming career forward a few steps.

Growing Miscanthus @ University of Illinois