I am pleased to acknowledge the outstanding work done by scientists at the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences and the projects undertaken by the Idaho Agricultural Experiment Station. 

I write this letter while attending the annual meeting of the National Agricultural Biotechnology Council in Brookings, S.D. The meeting is focused on opportunities for agricultural biotechnology to address global energy issues. It is clear that the University of Idaho is—and has been—at the forefront of this field; we must remain committed to helping our nation address its energy needs and global climate change.

Our oilseed-breeding program offers growers alternatives for new markets such as biodiesel and rotation crops to sustain yields and reduce losses to pests.  Other projects focus on biodiesel quality and production—an area the college has studied since 1979.

Adding value to both the breeding and biodiesel programs, we are pursuing new markets for oilseed meal and other co-products.

We envision the day when mustard may grow as a rotation crop, its seed crushed to extract oil for biodiesel production, and its meal highly valued as a biological pesticide and fertilizer. 

Ethanol: New wheat and barley varieties we are researching result in straw to supply new ethanol biorefineries. We’re working with colleagues in the College of Natural Resources on new methods to convert woody material into fuel. 

We are serious about growing the university’s reputation as a world leader in sustainability and continuing agriculture’s traditional role as a wellspring of many benefits for society.

If you live in Idaho, attended the college, or depend on our researchers’ efforts at our dozen research and extension centers statewide, you already know that.

You see us at work testing new varieties. You hear our researchers talk about plans to apply today’s science to issues that face us now or in the future. 

Throughout this website, you can read more about our biofuels and bioproducts research, along with a sampling of the multitude of other initiatives we’re pursuing in your service. I invite you to send us your comments and ideas to help us continue serving you.

Contact Greg Bohach at gbohach@uidaho.edu.