Innovative agriculture talk at Kansas Wesleyan

By Scout Nelson

Kansas Wesleyan University welcomes the public to its engaging lecture series "A Prairie Conversation," featuring a deep dive into sustainable agriculture with guest speaker Stan Cox. This event is scheduled for November 13, from 6-8 p.m. at Peters Science Hall 201. 

Stan Cox, a prominent ecosphere fellow from The Land Institute, will share insights from his extensive research in crop science and the development of perennial crops. His work focuses on creating agricultural systems that support sustainable growth and soil conservation, leveraging his background in plant breeding and genetic research.

Cox's career began with significant contributions at Iowa State University, followed by impactful field research in India, and later, a vital role at the USDA Agricultural Research Service in Kansas. His achievements include the development of disease-resistant wheat varieties through innovative breeding techniques involving wild species.

The evening will progress with a panel discussion led by Wes Jackson, co-founder of The Land Institute and a retired professor from Kansas Wesleyan University. Jackson, an advocate for ecological agriculture, will moderate a session exploring the transformative potential of perennial grains in modern agriculture.

The conversation aims to illuminate the challenges and opportunities within perennial agriculture, emphasizing how it can enhance ecological resilience and profitability for farmers. The discussion is particularly relevant as global agriculture faces the pressures of climate change and resource depletion.

Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with Cox and Jackson during a question-and-answer session, providing a platform to discuss practical applications and theoretical implications of perennial agriculture.

This event is not only a lecture, but a communal forum intended to foster understanding and inspire action among students, farmers, and anyone interested in the future of agriculture. As the global community moves towards more sustainable farming practices, conversations like these are crucial for sharing knowledge and driving innovation.

For more details and to register for the event, please visit the official Kansas Wesleyan University website or contact the event organizers directly.

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