Crops Researchers are studying the use of insecticides and the relative characteristics of insect resistant corn. Forestry Researchers grow alder, willow, English oak, silver maple and poplar trees to study their patterns of genetic variation. They are evaluating evergreen species for Christmas tree production. Scientists are also investigating alder trees' ability to fix nitrogen in the soil for use by forages and other trees. Researchers test trees for their ability to tolerate Iowa's climate, pests and diseases.
Experiments are underway on using trees as biomass.
Ecology Ecological and environmental scientists study the interaction of agriculture and Iowa's wildlife. There are extensive calving and breeding barns at the farm. Twelve cattle feeding pens are used for weaning and feeding trials. The Heart of Iowa bicycle trail bisects the farm.