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Intermediate wheatgrass as a dual use crop for grain and grazing
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Table of Contents: Land Report (Number 9, Winter 1980)
Page 2
Gift of Batteries Received
The Land Institute received a donation of large industrial batteries to store wind-generated electricity, presenting both opportunities and storage challenges.
K.C.C. Consumer Information Board
The Land Institute has been selected to represent consumer interests on a new board advising the Kansas Corporation Commission on utility regulation.
Page 3
Affiliation with Emporia State Made Official
A formal agreement allows for cooperative educational programs, resource sharing, and cross-listing of courses between The Land Institute and Emporia State University.
Visitors’ Day Held
A report on the fall Visitors’ Day, which featured tours, student-led discussions on various topics, and a presentation by Carter Henderson.
Page 4
Distinguished Men Are Guests
The institute hosted visits from notable figures, including ecologist Paul Sears, futurist Carter Henderson, and environmental leader Maurice Strong.
Page 5
County Energy Planning: Toward Community Self-Sufficiency
An update on the project to involve local citizens in energy planning, aiming to create a replicable model for community-based energy self-reliance.
Page 6
Wood Burning Workshop Warm
A workshop on heating with wood covered stove efficiency, safety, and woodlot management, despite unseasonably warm weather.
Page 7
An Herbarium Project
Student Joy Hasker cataloged the flora of The Land Institute, establishing a baseline collection to track future ecological changes and succession.
A Building Project
Students constructed a machinery shed to protect farm equipment and supplies, utilizing recycled materials and existing structures.
Page 8
Agricultural Ecosystems
Kelly Kindscher outlines a research project to design a sustainable agricultural ecosystem based on perennial crops, tree crops, and ecological principles.
Page 9
The Kansas Apple
A historical look at apple growing in Kansas reveals a decline in production and diversity since the late 19th century.
Page 10
Finding Zea diploperennis in Mexico
Marty Bender recounts an expedition to Mexico to find and collect seeds of the perennial corn relative Zea diploperennis for research at The Land.
Page 12
Kansas Rural Center Formed
A new organization has been established to support rural life and small-scale agriculture in Kansas through education and research.
Telling the USDA
Appropriate technology advocates testified at USDA hearings, urging a shift in focus towards small farms, organic methods, and decentralized food systems.
Page 13
The Great Plains in Transition: Toward a Sustainable Agriculture and Culture
Wes and Dana Jackson discuss the unsustainable nature of current Great Plains agriculture and propose two scenarios for the region’s future.
Page 16
Dust Bowl: The Southern Plains in the 1930’s
A review of Donald Worster’s book, which analyzes the ecological and economic causes of the Dust Bowl disaster.
Page 17
EARTH DAY ’80
Plans are announced for the tenth anniversary of Earth Day, focusing on local community initiatives for environmental quality.
Page 18
Impacts on the Land in the New Age of Limits
This article argues that a massive alcohol fuels program from grain crops would cause severe soil erosion and threaten future food supplies.
Page 21
Our Transportation Dilemma
Mari Peterson examines the history of U.S. transportation policy, arguing for a shift away from automobiles towards more energy-efficient rail and mass transit.
Page 24
Building a Solar Greenhouse
Students constructed a passive solar greenhouse attached to the main building to provide a controlled environment for plant research and supplemental heat.
Page 26
Introduction to Alternatives in Health and Nutrition
Dana Jackson introduces a section on health, emphasizing preventative care, nutrition, and personal responsibility as alternatives to high-tech medicine.
Page 27
Parental Obligations in Home Births
Dr. Wally Rogers discusses the responsibilities and preparations necessary for parents choosing home birth as a safe alternative.
Page 28
Home Births with Midwives – An Option Desired
Penny Geis explores the reasons for choosing midwifery and the legal status of midwives in Kansas.
Page 29
The Role of Food Co-ops in Human Health and Soil Health
Ali Henderson connects personal nutrition with soil health, advocating for food co-ops as a way to support sustainable agriculture and better diets.
Page 30
Prairieland Food Cooperative Thriving
A report on the growth and activities of the local food co-op, which provides a community space and source for whole foods.
Page 31
“New Age” Board Games
A review of cooperative board games that teach environmental values, such as “Save the Whales.”
