Growing Grains in Alaska

UAF’s Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station researchers are continuing their work on investigating grains such as barley, oats, wheat and canola for successful growth in Alaska. Through this work, researchers are close to identifying a spring wheat variety for use in Alaska fields, as well as a variety of canola that can be used for crop rotation.

Alaska Apples

Researchers are evaluating locally grown apples to determine the quality of Alaska apple varieties for processing into juice and cider. There is an increasing interest from local markets for juice and cider and among Alaska apple growers for potential business opportunities. The researchers have already documented 50+ varieties that have potential for significant Alaska yields.

Pesticide Persistence

UAF researchers are studying the effectiveness of herbicides in managing invasive plants. Managing persistent herbicides in Alaska is of high value to agriculture and invasive plant management when those herbicides are effective for multiple years as this allows for less herbicide use.

Midnight Sunflowers

Bird enthusiasts in Alaska know the value of good- quality sunflower seeds for attracting feathered friends to their porches. UAF researchers developed a variety of sunflowers as a crop for the wild birdseed market in Alaska.

Variety Trials Inform Local Producers

The Alaska Variety Trials project is conducted in Fairbanks and Mat-Su each summer to test which varieties of vegetables, flowers and herbs are most productive for regional growers. The results are shared with community members, and input is solicited on varieties to test each year. The produce is donated to community food banks.

 

 

 

Healthy Soils Means Healthy Crops

UAF Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station soil researchers visited 94 locations, including commercial farms, home gardens and community gardens in Interior, Southcentral, Southeast and Kodiak Island to gather soil samples for a total of 290 samples. The study will establish baseline soil conditions for cultivated areas in Alaska.

Weed Scientist To Increase Productivity

Through the development of local partnerships, the Institute of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Extension has established funding to hire a weed scientist to serve the state of Alaska. This person will be based in Fairbanks and integral in collaborating with soil scientists and grain specialists to develop a systems approach to best management practices for cereal grain production in Alaska.