The DOE program is aiming far higher, though, by developing technologies for converting many different types of biomass to fuels more efficiently, with little waste. Such conversion technologies are being developed by DOE's National Renewable Energy Laboratory. The other part of the program focuses on developing hardy, high-yield crops that are virtually designed with energy production in mind. Down on the farm Corridors of energy crops can bridge the gap between areas of natural forest or prairie. Most people know that some American farmers have a tough time turning a profit.
Fewer people realize that farmers are victims, in part, of their own success.
Dramatic gains in farm productivity have led to increased production from less land. Falling prices, shrinking profits, and growing tracts of surplus land. During the 1990s, for instance, an average of 50 to 55 million acres of agricultural land have been taken out of production each year for conservation and economic reasons. One biomass crop that can readily be grown on most cropland is switchgrass , a native American prairie grass. Also promising are fast-growing trees and shrubs such as hybrid poplars and willows .