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Winter camelina as a relay crop in soybean system

Researchers are making the case for winter camelina as a viable second crop for soybean growers in the Upper Midwest.

University of Minnesota cropping systems specialist Scott Wells says winter camelina has been around for thousands of years, and his team is looking at how the oilseed might fit into a corn/soybean rotation.

“The way we see this is a compliment to soybean production systems.  Yes, the oils are complimentary between (both soybeans and camelina), but we’re farming it as if you want to grow soybeans, put some camelina out in front of it.  (same thing) For corn, for wheat, things of that nature.”

Wells tells Brownfield camelina is an effective cover crop when seeded in the fall and can be harvested for it’s high protein and omega-3 fatty acid content.

“It fits in corn and soybean, provides added value to farmers, and protects the environment.  It’s kind of a win-win.”

He says the next phase of their research involves plant breeding and balancing the tradeoffs of double-cropping.

Brownfield interviewed Wells during a field day at the University of Minnesota Southern Research and Outreach Center in Waseca, Minnesota.