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ARS Home » Northeast Area » University Park, Pennsylvania » Pasture Systems & Watershed Management Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #245600
Title: Food, Feed, and Fuel: Integrating Energy Double Crops in Conventional Farming Systems

Author
item CAMARGO, G - Pennsylvania State University
item Rotz, Clarence - Al
item RICHARD, T - Pennsylvania State University

Submitted to: Proceedings of the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers International (ASABE)
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 9/20/2009
Publication Date: 10/12/2009
Citation: Camargo, G., Rotz, C.A., Richard, T.L. 2009. Food, Feed, and Fuel: Integrating Energy Double Crops in Conventional Farming Systems [abstract]. Bioenergy Engineering Conference. Paper No. 1

Interpretive Summary: An interpretive summary is not required.

Technical Abstract: The increasing demand for renewable energy, coupled with global demand for agricultural products and a range of environmental constraints, requires a re-thinking of current agricultural practices. Growing markets for cellulosic and other biomass feedstocks create new opportunities for farmers to diversify their businesses while improving local and global carbon balances. This study evaluated how typical Northeast dairy farms can integrate bioenergy double crops in conventional cropping systems to produce fuel as well as feed and food. Estimates of crop production, energy and greenhouse gas emissions demonstrate that the way energy crops are integrated on farms have a dramatic impact on the outcomes.