Whether you're managing your family's farm or you're an avid supporter of greenspaces in urban areas, interest in expanding our understanding of the natural environment has never been higher. With an increased focus on sustainability, safety, and innovation, what we know about shepherding our energy and environmental resources has evolved rapidly in the past decade. If you've got questions about best practices in environmental stewardship, you'll appreciate that our information is based on peer-reviewed science - the gold standard in determining the credibility and reliability of information.
Looking for an answer to a specific question? Contact our energy and environmental stewardship educator, Jay Solomon, to learn more about how Illinois Extension is prepared to help.
Grass-based Agriculture
The Driftless Region of Illinois and Wisconsin is a unique agricultural region with a history of
evolving farming practices that are economically and ecologically viable. This technical report is
based on a four-year research project to understand barriers and limitations to grass-based
agriculture. The research seeks to identify opportunities to reduce barriers to grass-based agriculture to enhance both the agricultural and ecological outcomes of farming. We used a placed-based approach that builds on insights from farmers and agricultural stakeholders living and working in the region.
Throughout our research, we have been aided by numerous local stakeholders. We are grateful to
the local leaders, farmers, and residents who met with us and shared their insights. The information
received from the residents we engaged is at the heart of our research. We also want to thank the
local farmers who participated in our survey and the valuable information they shared about their
decision-making related to farming practices. We hope this report will help improve the future of
agriculture in the Driftless region.
