Arkansas - Booneville Plant Materials Center Highlights

Maintain and improve productivity of agricultural lands and watersheds

Pasture and hayland production in the southern Ozarks and the Arkansas River Valley are improved with the development of 'Bumpers' eastern gamagrass and Hampton Germplasm big bluestem
Droughty conditions in Arkansas, southern Missouri, and eastern Oklahoma are addressed through evaluation of Indiangrass ecotypes for forage production, wildlife habitat, and conservation cover.
Grazing management practices are improved in Arkansas, southern Missouri, and eastern Oklahoma through cooperative research with the Agriculture Research Service.
Evaluation of native plant selections and conservation plant releases from other plant materials centers for potential conservation use in the southern Ozarks
Cool and warm season annual cover crops are evaluated for adaptation and productivity for soil health in western Arkansas

Transfer plant information and technology to customers

NRCS field office staff are trained in plant identification, establishment, and management of adapted plant materials for conservation programs.
Conservation partners in Arkansas are trained in the use of cultural techniques for establishment and management of native grasses.
Plant materials technology is transferred to the public through written products, and joint field days, workshops and activities with the Agriculture Research Service.

Identify groups and individuals that may benefit from the PM program.

Historically underserved participants are provided plant material information and technology transfer via local NRCS field offices.