Researchers conduct work in swine, beef, sheep, horses, turfgrass, poultry, and entomology. The MU Department of Agricultural Engineering is looking at machinery for one-pass incorporation and the effects of improper spray applications. Additionally, the Missouri Foundation Seed program uses the South Farms to increase the sales of newly developed seed varieties to dealers. The Southwest Center was established in 1959 through the purchase of an 898-acre site that represented soil types in this region. Alternative strategies for overcoming fescue toxicosis and the investigation of positive environmental techniques for land application of agricultural and processing wastes such as pasture fertilizers highlight current research.
Researchers also work in forage grass breeding, small grains research, and horticultural research.
Driving directions Spickard, Grundy County Thompson Farm Researchers at the 1,600-acre Thompson Farm focus on beef cattle production systems and crops management. Because of the large cattle numbers, forages receive substantial research attention. Opportunities for alternative crops are also being explored. Driving directions Williamsville, Wayne County University Forest Established by the Morrill Act in the 1870s, the University Forest contains 160 acres of upland hardwood. Current projects include the effects of acid rain, hydrology and oak decline research on forest survival.