Biotech Updates

USDA and DOE Fund 10 Projects to Accelerate Bioenergy Crop Production

August 12, 2011

The U.S. Department of Agriculture and Department of Energy have awarded 10 research grants to enhance the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of producing biofuel and bioenergy crops. The grants are part of Obama administration's initiatives to secure the future energy needs of America and create more opportunities for their farming industry.

"USDA is helping our nation develop the next generation of biofuels to grow jobs and generate energy from new, homegrown sources," said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. "Combining DOE's leadership in genome-scale technologies with USDA's experience in crop improvement will accelerate the efficient production of biofuels."

The projects that received grants are involved in improving biofuel crop yield, quality, and ability to withstand extreme environmental conditions. The researchers will use advanced techniques of modern genomics and other strategies.

Read the press release at http://www.csrees.usda.gov/newsroom/news/2011news/08111_plant_genomics_bioenergy.html.