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ARS Home » Plains Area » Brookings, South Dakota » Integrated Cropping Systems Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #150291
Title: THE GREAT PLAINS SYSTEM NETWORK

Author
item Anderson, Randal
item Krupinsky, Joseph

Submitted to: Proceedings from Dynamic Cropping Systems: Prinicples, Processes, and Challenges
Publication Type: Proceedings
Publication Acceptance Date: 8/1/2003
Publication Date: 8/1/2003
Citation: Anderson, R.L., Krupinsky, J.M. 2003. The great plains system network. Proceedings from Dynamic Cropping Systems: Prinicples, Processes, and Challenges. August 4-7, 2003. Bismarck, ND. pp. 183-186.

Interpretive Summary: Numerous scientists are conducting research on dryland cropping systems, but producers are concerned with application of data and principles derived from only a few study locations. The Great Plains Systems Network was established to facilitate cooperation among scientists and producers in recognizing biological principles of sustainable production systems. Emphasis is being placed on four areas: cropping systems, integrated crop-livestock systems, soil quality, and data extrapolation. The System has led to regional projects in each of these focus areas. The National Program Staff expanded the soil quality team of this Network into a national program for the ARS.

Technical Abstract: Networks of agricultural research stations and projects have been helpful for identifying principles of semiarid crop production in the past. With the challenges of developing diverse cropping systems in today¿s agricultural environment, the advantages of regional interaction are evident. The Great Plains Systems Network (GPSN) was established to facilitate cooperation among scientists and producers and development of regional projects across the Great Plains. The GPSN currently emphasizes four focus areas: cropping systems, integrated crop-livestock systems, soil quality, and data extrapolation. At GPSN workshops, scientists and producers have interacted to identify goals and objectives in each focus area.