West Central Research and Outreach Center (WCROC)

Engaging our Community

WCROC faculty and staff offer field days, educational events and hands-on demonstrations in collaboration with U of MN researchers, scientists, extension educators and industry professionals. Events are designed for consumers, farmers, producers, and the general public. Read more on our Events and Education page.

Research on the Prairie

The WCROC is located in Morris, Minn., on the edge of the prairie. Our location allows us to research the power of the wind and study prairie landscapes for pollinator habitats. We also maintain cropland and research plots and conduct swine and dairy research. To learn more about research efforts at the WCROC, visit our Research page.

One of a Kind

As the first land grant institution in the Midwest to develop an organic dairy herd dedicated to research and education, the WCROC is the only university-sanctioned program to manage a conventional and organic herd side-by-side. Our dairy research includes livestock health, nutrition and reproduction. To learn about Dairy research at the WCROC, please see our Dairy page.

News

When to take out cover crop rye

Some farmers interested in cover crops have planted soybeans into cereal rye or winter wheat, had good results with weed suppression and experienced negligible yield impacts. However, no research data is available about planting corn into living cereal rye. A small research plot at the WCROC may provide the answers.

Using sun to keep sows cool

More efficient sow cooling is just one of the innovative energy-related practices that are being tested at the WCROC. Other ideas include more efficient piglet heating systems, reduced nocturnal temperatures and generating solar power on-site to run the barns.

Alvarez completes Fellowship

Adriana Alvarez was selected as a MnDRIVE Global Food Venture Fellow for 2016-2017. She is pursuing her PhD in Bioproducts and Biosystems Science, and is advised by WCROC faculty Robert Gardner.

Algae: Dairy's next food source?

Could algae be the next ingredient used in dairy rations alongside corn and soybeans? Robert Gardner and his research team at the WCROC think so.

more news