The Field Research and Demonstration System

Illinois is a relatively large state -- over 400 miles from north to south, and about 200 miles wide at it's widest point, totaling nearly 56,500 square miles or something over 36 million acres (26 million acres of cropland). This size is accompanied by moderate levels of variability in soils, topography and climate. For example, pedologists have identified nearly 500 unique soil series in the state, which range in productivity and topography from flat, highly productive "Cornbelt" soils to steep, eroded, ecologically fragile soils. A multitude of soils exist in between that vary widely in their natural productivity and management requirements. Climate differs widely from north to south with, on average, 12 inches more precipitation and 30 days longer frost-free growing season at the southern tip than at the northern border of the state.

In order to sample these diverse environments and to fulfill the mission of research and demonstration in soil management and crop production, the Department of Crop Sciences operates a system of six field facilities at various locations in the state, where land, equipment and staff are available for program support. This system has evolved from a number of smaller "Experiment Fields" which were established under the direction of Dr. C. G. Hopkins during the late 19th and early 20th Centuries. These evolutionary changes reflect advances in agricultural technology, research methodology, communications, and travel.

These six facilities are organized into an operational unit and coordinated through an office in the Department of Crop Sciences. Each center serves the dual role as a site for both research and demonstration work in areas primarily related to soil management and crop production. Although they are administered through the Department of Crop Sciences, many cooperative projects are conducted that involve specialists from many different units of the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences and other University, state and federal agencies. Centers serve as sites for Extension activities, in-service training, agribusiness workshops, and for special tours.

Each of the stations is equipped with weather instruments and daily reports are made to the Illinois State Water Survey and the U.S. Weather Service of NOAA. Three centers are part of the National Atmospheric Deposition Program and two are equipped to monitor thunderstorms as part of a nationwide program administered by the State University of New York.