Tennessee Living

In biofuel production, the latest buzzword is switchgrass. Touted as the next big feedstock for ethanol, switchgrass – and its utilization – are a significant part of the Tennessee Biofuels Initiative, presented by the University of Tennessee. And since the plant is native to Tennessee, UT predicts that 20,000 of our state’s agriculturalists could stand to profit from its usage – not to mention the positive effects to our economy.

Consider these switchgrass facts:
# Switchgrass is native to most parts of North America – including Tennessee.

# A perennial, switchgrass reaches its full yield in the third year after planting.

# At maturity, widely spaced switchgrass plants can measure 20 inches in diameter at ground level.

# When managed for energy production, it can be cut once or twice a year with regular hay or silage equipment.

# Switchgrass fields provide habitat for many species of wildlife, including cover for deer and rabbits, and a nesting place for wild turkey and quail.

# Biofuels (including switchgrass production) are projected to create 4,000 new jobs in Tennessee and $100 million annually in new farm revenue. 

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Magazine:
Tennessee Home & Farm, Summer 2010 Edition Edition

Headline:
Biofuels Switch to Grass

Summary:
In biofuel production, the latest buzzword is switchgrass.

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