Kernza (Thinopyrum intermedium), a perennial grain with an extensive fibrous root system, is emerging as a climate-smart alternative to annual wheat with potential to improve soil health and increase the agronomic efficiency of grain production. Moreover, Kernza can be managed as a dual-purpose crop and used as a source of forage following grain harvest, enhancing the economic returns of its production. This USDA funded project, led by PI’s Dr. Steve Culman (Oregon State University), and multiple Co-PIs, including Dr. Christine Sprunger, aimed to establish management recommendations to optimize dual-use grain and forage production of Kernza and quantify the soil health benefits of this system. 

 

As part of this effort, our team, led by Alexa Smychkovich, is exploring the influence of management and soil type on nematode community assemblage and nematode-based indices of soil food web condition. There are three experimental sites associated with this project, spanning four states (OH, NY, KS, MN) and representing three soil types: silt loam, clay loam, and silty clay loam. Additionally, our lab is evaluating relationships between nematode and soil microbial (bacterial and fungal) communities to develop a greater understanding of soil biological health in dual-purpose Kernza production systems.