Switchgrass and Other Energy Crops Energy crops, including herbaceous and woody crops, hold tremendous opportunities for Iowa s agricultural sector. The nation s largest switchgrass demonstration site is being coordinated in southern Iowa. Other energy crops include hybrid poplars and other fast-growing trees. Plantations of trees are being grown throughout Iowa for energy demonstration projects, and are also serving as buffer strips to mitigate water pollution and soil erosion. Other Biomass Resources Additional energy resources being researched in Iowa include corn stover, wood residues, and soy-based lubricants.
Corn stover is predicted to be one of Iowa s most significant biomass resources in the future.
Renewable Energy Organizations Many organizations are working to advance renewable energy development in Iowa.