LANSING ? If you have an innovative idea for a new use or market for corn, your time to submit a research proposal for consideration by the Corn Marketing Program of Michigan is fast approaching.
There is no time to delay as our state?s corn farmers are looking for ideas that focus on the development of processes adding value to Michigan corn through new markets, or advancements in traditional markets as well as innovative production techniques and environmentally sound practices that enhance productivity.
With advances that have allowed our state?s corn growers to produce more corn on less land, Michigan?s corn crop continues to grow, with production of 300 bushels per acre projected in the coming years. We must prepare for the future now and ensure that we have markets and uses for that crop. Today?s research is tomorrow?s innovation that will provide new uses for generations to come, so it is imperative that you submit your proposal by Nov. 4.
?We are looking for original projects that focus on increasing traditional corn markets and developing new markets and uses,? said Pat Feldpausch, CMPM president and a corn farmer from Fowler. ?The next ground-breaking discovery could come from CMPM research completed this year. And that is more important than most people realize, as we are expecting to continue producing more corn per acre, and we will have an increasing amount of corn that is looking for a market.?
Research is an integral part of the CMPM. State farmer dollars invested in corn research have already resulted in the development of corn-based products such as carpeting, fabrics, fuels and plastics that replace petroleum-based products. In addition to replacing petroleum-based products, corn can be developed into pharmaceuticals and salt substitutes. Additional products can also be made from ethanol processing because of past corn-research investments.
Research requests for proposals (RFP) are distributed to parties interested in advancing Michigan?s corn industry through the development of new and improved markets through innovative production practices and enhancing traditional markets such as livestock. The CMPM also partners with other corn-growing states to fund large-scale national projects too large for an individual state to fund.
?We are always looking for fresh ideas and new partners,? said Jody Pollok-Newsom, Executive Director of the CMPM. ?Research is what keeps the agricultural industry moving forward.?
The projects that receive funding will be announced in late January 2012. For additional information on the research RFP, click on MICorn.Org
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