Purpose

This workshop will provide information about miscanthus and other perennial bioenergy crops for energy generation in Iowa. Farmers, energy producers, land managers and anyone interested in biomass production are welcome to attend and learn more. For additional information, please download the workshop flyer.

Location

Johnson County Extension Office, 3109 Old Highway 218 S., Iowa City, IA 52246
Link to county web page | Direct link to directions and map page

Workshop Program

Time	Topic
8:00 am	Registration and refreshments
8:45	Welcome and introductions by Jim Fawcett and Emily Heaton, Iowa State University.
9:00	Emily Heaton, will give an overview of what biomass crops are and how they can be used for economic and environmental benefit in Iowa.
9:30	Ferman Milster, University of Iowa, will describe what is happening with the UI’s biomass power project and what it means for market opportunities in the Iowa City area.
10:00	Break
10:30	Dean Tiessen, New Energy Farms, is a leading innovator in miscanthus planting and projection technology and will discuss the mechanics and economics of planting miscanthus.
11:00	Jim Fawcett, Iowa State University Extension, will discuss what adding perennial biomass crops might mean for local producers and land managers.
11:30	Lunch (provided)
12:15 pm	Local producers pursuing miscanthus production will give their perspective and relate their learning experiences. Question and answer session. Summary of major points and needed next steps.
1:00	Workshop adjourns

Registration

Registration includes lunch, morning refreshments and handouts. Early registration is $20 if completed by midnight, March 12 EXTENDED to midnight March 18!. Late registration at the door is $30. Students are eligible for free registration but are asked to preregister to assist with planning and preparations. Registrations requesting a refund must be received by midnight, March 12.

Questions?

For questions about the Biomass Crop Production Workshop please contact Emily Heaton at (515) 294+1310 or email heaton@iastate.edu. For registration questions, call the ANR Program Services office at (515) 294-6429 or email anr@iastate.edu.