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 Recent trends in energy prices, coupled with developments in energy policy, have made it clear that agriculture will play an important role in America’s energy future.  However, concerns over the growing use of biofuels and biomass, their impact on food availability and price, and their broader environmental impact, have generated debate about the sustainability of current bioenergy developments. 

This Bioenergy Conference, funded by a Professional Development Program grant from USDA Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE), will highlight the role of farms and farmland in a sustainable energy future, emphasizing information that attendees will need to work with farmers and landowners considering or participating in bioenergy projects.  The December 5, 2008 conference will focus on production and utilization of grassy and woody biomass feedstocks for cellulosic ethanol and electricity generation; an overview of wind energy production in the Midwest, focusing on what landowners should know about wind energy leases; financing bioenergy projects; and building community and regional support for bioenergy projects.

A second conference in December 2009 will incorporate additional bioenergy topics.

The conference is targeted to secondary and post-secondary agricultural educators, extension personnel, and agency personnel in Missouri, Iowa, and Illinois.  Use the links on this website to review the conference program, register, or apply for a travel scholarship.

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