Kernza® perennial grain findings under the KernzaCAP USDA grant document how current work in market development and de-risking production through federal farm programs can create a safety net for farmers, increase the adoption of the perennial grain, and support Kernza in ways similar to other commodity grains to support its future success in markets and on landscapes.

Abstract

Intermediate wheatgrass (Thinopyrum intermedium [Host] Barkworth & D.R. Dewey; IWG) is the first perennial grain crop to be released commercially; IWG grain is trademarked as Kernza^® Perennial Grain. The first commercial retail product from Kernza was launched in 2016 (Lubofsky 2016). Farms often adopt IWG to diversify crop rotations, benefit from a dual-purpose crop, improve soil health, and minimize nutrient runoff. Developing market forces along with the natural resources benefits of IWG has enhanced interest in perennial grains as a viable cash crop, underscoring the importance of effective management recommendations to satisfy current and projected demand of the grain.