Minnesota Corn has a long history of investing in groundbreaking University of Minnesota agricultural research, advocacy, and education.
Through increased funding for nitrogen management, soil health, and corn-derived plastics, this partnership is advancing research to tackle some of the most pressing challenges facing today’s agricultural industry. And through bolstered education and outreach at UMN Extension, Minnesota 4-H, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, and the Bell Museum, Minnesota Corn’s investment in education and outreach has been invaluable to advancing sustainable agriculture for future generations.
Why it matters
“Minnesota Corn’s collaboration reaches every corner of Extension, from youth discovering plant science to farmers applying new research in their fields. Minnesota Corn members serve as volunteers, mentors, and leaders who make our work stronger. We’re grateful for your organization's enduring commitment to innovation, stewardship, and the people of Minnesota agriculture, and for your partnership in building a stronger future together."
-Beverly Durgan, Dean, Extension, University of Minnesota
“Minnesota Corn Research & Promotion Council’s partnership with the University of Minnesota is essential to turning farmer investments into meaningful research outcomes. Together, we advance sustainable agriculture, strengthen environmental stewardship, and create new opportunities for Minnesota corn growers. It’s a collaboration we deeply value and are committed to continuing.”
-John Mages Chair, Minnesota Corn Research & Promotion Council
Program highlights
Bell Museum summer camps
Minnesota Corn supports the Bell Museum’s work with youth, helping children in Greater Minnesota’s agricultural communities to explore their scientific passions. Through summer camps that focus on food, agriscience, and biodiversity in Grand Rapids, Crookston, and Lamberton, the Bell Museum is equipping youth with essential sustainable agriculture experiences to become the successful farmers and agriculture professionals our state needs. Minnesota Corn’s support has helped the Bell Museum recruit students and staff from local communities, ensuring its growing summer camps implement responsive programming.
“Minnesota Corn has been instrumental in our ability to deliver AgriScience camp programming to hundreds of rural youth in Minnesota through collaborative partnerships with science and agriculture organizations.”
-Natalie Kennedy, Director of statewide engagement, Bell Museum
Biodegradable plastics from corn
University of Minnesota scientists Thomas Hoye, PhD, and Ian Tonks, PhD, are working to improve the degradability of polylactic acid (PLA), the corn-derived plastic with the largest production volume. Their work aims to make PLA compostable outside of industrial facilities, which will reduce the environmental burden and enhance the material’s sustainability.
Support from Minnesota Corn has allowed several University of Minnesota PhD students and researchers to contribute to this research while strengthening their own research skills, thereby advancing a shared commitment to a more sustainable future for people and the planet.
“This research not only reduces reliance on petroleum-based plastics but also opens new markets for Minnesota corn. If successful, it could significantly boost demand for corn-derived materials, making them more competitive and sustainable alternatives in packaging, agriculture, and beyond."
-Thomas Hoye, PhD Distinguished University Teaching Professor, University of Minnesota College of Science and Engineering