Source: MURRAY STATE UNIVERSITY submitted to NRP
BIOENERGY UTILIZATION, DEMONSTRATION, RESEARCH, AND EDUCATION CENTER (BUDREC)
Sponsoring Institution
National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Project Status
COMPLETE
Funding Source
OTHER GRANTS
Reporting Frequency
Annual
Accession No.
1001064
Grant No.
2013-70001-21254
Cumulative Award Amt.
$145,224.00
Proposal No.
2013-04619
Multistate No.
(N/A)
Project Start Date
Sep 1, 2013
Project End Date
Aug 31, 2018
Grant Year
2013
Program Code
[NLGCA]- Capacity Building Grants for Non Land Grant Colleges of Agriculture
Recipient Organization
MURRAY STATE UNIVERSITY
(N/A)
MURRAY,KY 42071
Performing Department
Hutson School of Agriculture
Non Technical Summary
This project builds off of the recommendations of the Regional Strategy for Biobased Products in the Mississippi Delta issued in 2009 by Battelle Technology Partnership Practice, who worked with a group of over 50 stakeholders across the region to define new agricultural opportunities. This study concluded that "the primary renewable asset of the Mid-South Delta region is Biomass". This report further stated that the Mississippi Delta region has a combination of assets that provide significant strategic advantages in the development of a strong Biomass-based economy including the diversity of current Biomass production, existing industrial infrastructure and superior logistics. This all offers a foundation for economic development and agricultural opportunity. Murray State University, who was a participant in the Batelle Regional study, has become a leader in our Commonwealth in the area of Bioenergy development through our West Kentucky AgBioworks (WKABW) Initiative. The WKABW Initiative, based at the Murray State University RBIC is part of a regional, multi-state network focused on developing business to commercialize bio-energy crops and Biomass. WKABW has relationships with leading companies developing genetics, equipment and bio-processing technology, and is leveraging these activities into ongoing agricultural field trials, technology adoption and development of farmer/forester-based businesses focused on identified markets. The WKABW vision is to develop a bio-economy in west Kentucky in which the basic building blocks for industry and the raw materials for energy are derived from renewable plant/crop feed stocks (Biomass). The goals of the WKABW are as follows: Educate the region about Biomass opportunities. Develop supply chains through farmer networks growing alternative Biomass crops. Establish a Biomass Demonstration Center at Murray State to provide demonstration and pilot scale projects for crops, processing and new technologies. Support the commercialization of Biomass for energy, fuels, chemicals and materials with existing companies, new processing facilities and new technologies. The grant aims to develop bioenergy utilization demonstration research and education center (BUDREC) at Murray State University. This center will provide applied research opportunities in developing Biomass crops and innovative technologies to utilize the Biomass that is stockpiled in our region in different applications. Faculty and staff at Murray State University will conduct applied research and testing and gather data in a comparative analysis from burning different types of Biomass fuels including but not limited to Bioenergy crops and equine waste. By conducting applied research on Biomass technology we can be in a better position to encourage and facilitate the adoption of Biomass as a viable heat and energy source in the region. Murray State University will use our existing West Kentucky AgBioworks (WKABW) initiative as an expert service center to bring together a myriad of partners to support research in the production and economic development phases of the project. This project allows us to develop the BUDREC to showcase this technology and a closed loop system to students, investors, economic developers, local communities, entrepreneurs and industry personnel utilizing the Western Regional Center for Emerging Technology (WRCET) and the Regional Business Innovation Center (RBIC) at Murray State University.
Animal Health Component
50%
Research Effort Categories
Basic
25%
Applied
50%
Developmental
25%
Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)Subject of Investigation (SOI)Field of Science (FOS)Percent
4035330302050%
3075330202025%
9035330302025%
Knowledge Area
403 - Waste Disposal, Recycling, and Reuse; 903 - Communication, Education, and Information Delivery; 307 - Animal Management Systems;

Subject Of Investigation
5330 - Farm structures and related facilities;

Field Of Science
2020 - Engineering; 3020 - Education;
Goals / Objectives
Objective #1: Bioenergy Crop Demonstration Two years of demonstration/research will be conducted in the following areas. Farmer Network Bioenergy plots 20 acres of a variety of Bioenergy crops will be grown each year through the existing farmer network. $300 of grant funding per acre will be allotted for growing these crops in a demonstration/research format. MSU Bioenergy Demonstration Farm 10 acres of a variety of energy groups will be grown each year on the Hutson Farm. $300 of grant funding per acre will be allotted for growing these crops in a demonstration/research format. Objective #2: Bioenergy Utilization- the energy crops produced under objective 1 and Biomass equine waste will be used to demonstrate the utilization of the Bioenergy products. The project will install two bioburner units to heat a riding arena that is 220' x 170' and is presently devoid of heat. Objective #3: Bioenergy Research: The Bioenergy products grown in objective 1 and utilized in objective 2 will be researched for potential usage in a closed loop Bioenergy system. The following research will be conducted by all partners Field researchers will be conducted to determine costs and production capabilities of various Bioenergy crops Utilization research will be conducted to determine energy efficiencies of various Bioenergy crops and Biomass equine waste. Research reports will be produced indicating results and potential for trial implementation Objective #4: Bioenergy Education and Outreach Activities: Educational Activities Create a new Introduction to Bioenergy class Create a new Bioenergy Practicum class for experiential learning opportunities Revise the universities AGR 100 Contemporary Issues in Agriculture to include a unit on Bioenergy Revise the Emerging Technology Emphasis to include courses in Bioenergy Develop a graduate level class in Bioenergy Systems to be included in the new sustainability Master of Science program in the College of Science Outreach Activities: Host Agriculture Bioenergy Field Day annually Participate in relevant area farm shows and field days Utilize mobile demonstration unit to demonstrate closed loop system Produce an instructional/informative video documenting the "field to fuel" technology Host visits to the BUDREC to show communities, entrepreneurs, industry and farmers how Bioenergy crops/products can be grown, harvested, processed and utilized for lead energy in their homes, businesses, buildings and farms.
Project Methods
Efforts Products We will receive the harvested Biomass crops grown from our farmer network to use in applications at the Bioenergy Demonstration center. We will have a website and marketing materials. We will have the results of testing done at outside third-party labs. We will develop 3 new academic courses, revise one course, and revise 2 degree programs to expand the capacity of the university to offer curriculum in sustainable Bioenergy, Results At the end of the project we will have results of the analysis of farmer network and MSU Demonstration center Biomass crop strip trials. We will have an expanded farmer network with a defined communication system. We will have opportunities for faculty and students to apply their knowledge in real applications through working with the crops and research. We will have new knowledge and projects faculty can take into the classroom. We will have new knowledge about utilizing various Biomass products in heating applications. We will have a farmer network, agriculture stakeholders, community leaders, businesses, entrepreneurs, faculty and students who are educated in Biomass opportunities. We will be able to demonstrate a complete closed loop Bioenergy system. We will have recognition of the initiative through our marketing efforts. We will be able to expand our efforts in the future to work with new Bioenergy businesses to work with. 3. Outcomes/Impacts Outcomes from this project will be the furtherance of a sustainable Biomass/Bioenergy economy in our region that will translate into new opportunities for farmers, business, faculty and students that they otherwise would not have happened. Evaluation Plan This project will be evaluated internally by the PI and the key personnel to determine that the outcomes and deliverables are completed and meet the objectives and activities planned. Each will provide the results of their activities with a written report and the deliverable associated with their work. An outside evaluation will be solicited to validate the outcomes and maintain the grant activities. Our evaluation methods will have three phases. The first will be the development of evaluation protocols and survey instruments that will be used at educational events such as field days and workshops. Surveys will be intended to evaluate information related to outputs and outcomes. End user surveys and interviews will include participants in Farmer Network activities, and other individuals involved in strip trials and activities at the Bioenergy Demonstration Center.These interviews will determine follow up actionsto be taken as a result of participation in our project. The second phase will involve site visits to the locations where strip trials are being conducted, with businesses, faculty, students and partners involved with the project. A particular focus of these site visits will be on providing feedback on areas where the project can improve or emphasis areas should be adjusted. The third phase of external evaluation will be a mid-term and final evaluation on the project results, prepared in time to be included in the final report provided to the agency on the project. All the outcomes will be analyzed with the individual educational event surveys and deliverable documentation will be gathered and data will be aggregated for the overall report. We will also administer final end-user surveys (both written and oral) to determine what progress has been made on project outcomes, and will identify challenges that remain and steps for follow-up activities and action. The final evaluation report will be generated at the conclusion of project activities.

Progress 09/01/13 to 08/31/18

Outputs
Target Audience:The target audience for this project includes agriculture in general as well as students, investors, economic developers, local communities, entrepreneurs and industry personnel utilizing the Western Regional Center for Emerging Technology (WRCET) and the Regional Business Innovation Center (RBIC) at Murray State University. The Hutson School of Agriculture will work on growing specific dedicated bioenergy crops and utilizing them and other biomass sources as a source of energy to create a closed loop "field to fuel" bioenergy system. The Jones College of Science Engineering and Technology scientists and engineers will be involved in researching energy production, conversion efficiencies, and fuel chemistry. The Bauernfeind College of Business will also provide support for economic research and curriculum development. The Area Development Districts (Purchase and Pennyrile) will be able to utilize this center as they work with farmers and industries in our area in the area of alternative energy. Several other identified partners will all be encompassed in our expert service model. All of this strengthens the capacity of Murray State University to have an infrastructure to support research through this expert service center. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Students have been trained on the use of the biomass unit. Professional Development opportunities existed for the students who were employed through the grant. Faculty received Professional develpment opportunities through publications and reports and presentations. Graduate students were trained and participated in research opportunities. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The project team worked closely with all partners to organize field days anddemonstration tours, as well as begin preparing information for dissemination to the region's farmers on Biomass production. Since many of the sites were "on-farm" situations, there is a built in extension/outreach component. Faculty used their research in academic publication opportunities. We held a press event at the equine center as well as sending out press releases to the media throughout the project. We hosted a variety of events as well as inviting people in to see the work we are doing. As part of the BUDREC, one of the goals will be to establish a mobile unit that can demonstrate the technology and be on exhibit throughout the entire region and state. This is the outreach component of the research as this mobile unit can be used to demonstrate the technology in the region. With the installation of the new technology and the construction of an office and educational conference center at the Bio-Energy Demonstration Center at the equine center along with our existing residential demonstration unit at the Garrett House, we were able to successfully demonstrate a Biomass to energy model to area farmers, industry personnel, Regional Agricultural Economic Board Members, and other community leaders. A video detailing the BUDREC grant and the resulting outcomes has been posted tohttps://youtu.be/ryBhA4S0bTA Video and marketing materials promoted by LEI products and Organilock. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=taL62LRySLs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ro715AXS_M What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Nothing Reported

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? ACTIVITIES/OUTCOMES ACHIEVED NOTES/COMMENTS Objective #1 Demonstration Expansion of Bioenergy Crop Demonstration farm and Farmer Network applied research on Biomass crops. Put systems in place to measure and analyze strip trials of Biomass crops. Complete Not fully clear what this analysis is. Did not see crop budgets for each crops, comparison to other regional crops (corn, soy, etc.) in a way that farmers or stakeholders could make decisions. Hold farmer network informational event. Complete Hosted Bioenergy Field Day. Hold a farmer network training event. Complete Monitor plots in farmer network and on university farm Complete Provide results of analysis of strip trials. Complete Did not see yield data or other agronomic data. Also did not see comparison of varieties/performance/yield balance, or harvesting data. Continue with the successful engagement of the farmer network Complete This was done as well as possible without further farmer network support and every opportunity has been made to engage farmers in the region into the work. The ongoing organization of the farmer network and the adoption of these technologies/crops has not been implemented, but to no fault of the grantee, bioenergy crops in general (and the markets that support them have lagged. Grow 20 acres of Biomass crops in strip trials in farmer network and 10 acres at university Complete This objective was met jointly between university and private farmers. 10 acres of biomass crops were grown at the university including switchgrass, miscanthus, and hemp. Other trials took place with farmer network. Develop a communication network with regional growers. Complete Murray State serves as a hub for farmers in the region. This has continued to be activated through this work. Objective #2 Utilization Implement BUDREC Biomass heating system. Complete This is the gem of the entire project! The closed loop system is working fully demonstrating production, processing and products. Put systems in place to measure and analyze utilization of energy crops and equine waste. Complete Much of this work was done through thesis projects with grad students. Provide results of analysis of Biomass crops and equine waste utilized in closed loop system with bioburner Complete Much of this work was done through thesis projects with grad students. Objective #3 Research Testing on use of Biomass for heat. Conduct testing Complete Many tests were conducted using a variety of biomass products. Utilize different types of fuel sources Complete Successful demonstration of a variety of feedstocks including manure, switchgrass, tobacco tailings, miscanthus, and wod chips. Gather data Complete Refine operations Complete Research led to conclusions of which products could be used and in what combinations. Results of applied research on emissions conducted by MSU faculty, and outside testing labs. Complete Coordination with Dr. Loganathan in the Department of Chemistry revealed that no noxious emissions resulted from any of the biomass products. Objective #4 Education and Outreach Create new class in Introduction to Bioenergy. Not Completed- Revised The decision was made after the grant was submitted to incorporate the Introduction to Bioenergy concepts into existing coursework. That was accomplished. Create new class in Bioenergy Systems Practicum Not Completed- Revised The Practicum course evolved into a Sustainability in Agriculture course offered at the Graduate level. Revise AGR 199 to include unit on Bioenergy Complete This goal was combined with #1. Revise Academic Program to include courses in Bioenergy Complete This project has led to greater incorporation of bioenergy topics in all programs of study including experiential. Expand Sustainability Graduate program to include class in Bioenergy. Not Completed Bioenergy included in new Sustainability Class and new MS in Agriculture program. Host Bioenergy Demonstration Field days for area farmers, agriculturists, and community leaders. Complete Hosted Statewide BioEnergy Day on October 22, 2014 and annual events each year. http://bioenergyday.com/kentucky-hemp-harvested-in-msu%E2%80%88pilot-program-numerous-officials-take-part-in-national-bioenergy-day/ Participate in relevant area farm shows and field days Complete Statewide Wood Energy Show Utilize mobile demonstration unit to demonstrate closed loop system Complete Worked with area agriculture firms to demonstrate mobile unit include Carp Manufacturing plant. Develop video detailing process. Complete https://youtu.be/ryBhA4S0bTA Host individual visits and meetings as requested. Complete Literally 100's of meetings hosted. Classes will be created and approved through the university and included in revised curriculum. Complete Although all objectives were not met, the projects intended purpose was met through incorporation of bioenergy curriculum and learning experiences throughout the ag school learning environment. The Emerging Ag Technology degree will be revised to include Bioenergy. Complete Concepts included throughout curriculum. Educate 100 area farmers and agriculturist on this technology. Complete This objective was completed through field days and farmer meetings. Hold 3 meetings with local livestock production and adult agriculture groups. Complete Hosted many Leadership groups as part of their annual Leadership programs. Further, expanded this objective by hosting international guests. Develop written plans for transferability of concept. Incomplete Downturn in market and concept made this objective change along with change of focus of the technology provider. An annual field day will be held. Complete Annual Bioenergy, Biomass and/or Hemp Field Day A complete closed loop system of Bioenergy Development will be implemented and demonstrated. Complete This objective was fully completed to the benefit of the students. As outlined in weaknesses section there could be more clarity on the full economic model. Regular meetings of the Regional Ag Economic Development Board Complete This board has now dissolved. Develop video, marketing plan, marketing materials and website. https://youtu.be/ryBhA4S0bTA Video and marketing materials promoted by LEI products and Organilock. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=taL62LRySLs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ro715AXS_M

Publications


    Progress 09/01/16 to 08/31/17

    Outputs
    Target Audience:The target audience for this project includes agriculture in general as well as students, investors, economic developers, local communities, entrepreneurs and industry personnel utilizing the Western Regional Center for Emerging Technology (WRCET) and the Regional Business Innovation Center (RBIC) at Murray State University. The Hutson School of Agriculture will work on growing specific dedicated bioenergy crops and utilizing them and other biomass sources as a source of energy to create a closed loop "field to fuel" bioenergy system. The Jones College of Science Engineering and Technology scientists and engineers will be involved in researching energy production, conversion efficiencies, and fuel chemistry. The Bauernfeind College of Business will also provide support for economic research and curriculum development. The Area Development Districts (Purchase and Pennyrile) will be able to utilize this center as they work with farmers and industries in our area in the area of alternative energy. Several other identified partners will all be encompassed in our expert service model. All of this strengthens the capacity of Murray State University to have an infrastructure to support research through this expert service center. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Faculty, staff and students in 2015-16 were provided training on how to operate BB-500 by L.E.I. products personnel out of Madisonville, Kentucky. Faculty and staff involved on the project instructed students on proper instrument utilization. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Data and results were recorded and organized on a research poster and presented at the 2015 Kentucky Posters at the Capitol gathering, as well as Murray State University's Scholar's Week and Real World Market. Numerous tours and visits were hosted to third parties throughout the year What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Finish Project Evaluation Finish Bioburner Video

    Impacts
    What was accomplished under these goals? . Objective #1: Bioenergy Crop Demonstration 1. Farmer Network Bioenergy plots 20 acres of a variety of Bioenergy crops will be grown each year through the existing farmer network. $300 of grant funding per acre will be allotted for growing these crops in a demonstration/research format. Accomplished 2015 2. MSU Bioenergy Demonstration Farm 10 acres of a variety of energy groups will be grown each year on the Hutson Farm $300 of grant funding per acre will be allotted for growing these crops in a demonstration/research format. Accomplished 2015 Objective #2: Bioenergy Utilization- the energy crops produced under objective 1 and Biomass equine waste will be used to demonstrate the utilization of the Bioenergy products. 1. The project will install two bioburner units to heat a riding arena that is 220' x 170' and is presently devoid of heat. BB- 500 utilized for one trial period (2015) including emissions testing Objective #3: Bioenergy Research: The Bioenergy products grown in objective 1 and utilized in objective 2 will be researched for potential usage in a closed loop Bioenergy system. The following research will be conducted by all partners 1. Field researchers will be conducted to determine costs and production capabilities of various Bioenergy crops. Test began and continuing 2. Utilization research will be conducted to determine energy efficiencies of various Bioenergy crops and Biomass equine waste. Test began and continuing 3. Research reports will be produced indicating results and potential for trial implementation Poster with results developed and presented at Posters at the Capitol in Kentucky and Murray State University Scholar's Week in 2015 Objective #4: Bioenergy Education and Outreach Activities: 1. Educational Activities 1. Create a new Introduction to Bioenergy class. Faculty and student worker finalizing work on project 2. Create a new Bioenergy Practicum class for experiential learning opportunities Faculty and student worker finalizing work on project 3. Revise the universities AGR 100 Contemporary Issues in Agriculture to include a unit on Bioenergy Revisions underway. 4. Revise the Emerging Technology Emphasis to include courses in Bioenergy Discussions underway 5. Develop a graduate level class in Bioenergy Systems to be included in the new sustainability Master of Science program in the College of Science Graduate level classes were developed and approved as part of a new sustainability option in the online Master of Science program in Agriculture and are included in the Master of Science in Sustainability for the College of Science. 1. Outreach Activities: 1. Host Agriculture Bioenergy Field Day annually 2014 Bioenergy Day hosted in October 2014 2. Participate in relevant area farm shows and field days Hosted several field days on the university farm and bioenergy center; Live remote T.V. viewing of bio-burner project 3. Utilize mobile demonstration unit to demonstrate closed loop system Mobile unit currently unavailable 4. Produce an instructional/informative video documenting the "field to fuel" technologies Planning Stages 5. Host visits to the BUDREC to show communities, entrepreneurs, industry and farmers how Bioenergy crops/products can be grown, harvested, processed and utilized for lead energy in their homes, businesses, buildings and farms. Numerous visits hosted

    Publications

    • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2017 Citation: Comparison of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD) Levels in Two Varieties of Agricultural Hemp, American Society of Agronomy, Crop Science Society, 2017 Hemp Industry Association 24th Annual Conference, Lexington Ky Sept, 2017
    • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2017 Citation: The Effect of Row Spacing, Plant Population, and Maturity Levels on Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD) Levels in Agricultural Hemp, American Society of Agronomy, Crop Science Society, 2017 Hemp Industry Association 24th Annual Conference, Lexington Ky


    Progress 09/01/15 to 08/31/16

    Outputs
    Target Audience:The target audience for this project includes agriculture in general as well as students, investors, economic developers, local communities, entrepreneurs and industry personnel utilizing the Western Regional Center for Emerging Technology (WRCET) and the Regional Business Innovation Center (RBIC) at Murray State University. The Hutson School of Agriculture will work on growing specific dedicated bioenergy crops and utilizing them and other biomass sources as a source of energy to create a closed loop "field to fuel" bioenergy system. The Jones College of Science Engineering and Technology scientists and engineers will be involved in researching energy production, conversion efficiencies, and fuel chemistry. The Bauernfeind College of Business will also provide support for economic research and curriculum development. The Area Development Districts (Purchase and Pennyrile) will be able to utilize this center as they work with farmers and industries in our area in the area of alternative energy. Several other identified partners will all be encompassed in our expert service model. All of this strengthens the capacity of Murray State University to have an infrastructure to support research through this expert service center. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Faculty, staff and students in 2015-16were provided training on how to operate BB-500 by L.E.I. products personnel out of Madisonville, Kentucky. Faculty and staff involved on the project instructed students on proper instrument utilization. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Data and results were recorded and organized on a research poster and presented at the 2015 Kentucky Posters at the Capitol gathering, as well as Murray State University's Scholar's Week and Real World Market. Numerous tours and visits were hosted to third parties throughout the year. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Progress on goals underway will continue. Any projects not yet begun will be initiated. Further development of data acquisition instrumentation and fine-tuning of the mobile unit will continue.

    Impacts
    What was accomplished under these goals? Objective #1: Bioenergy Crop Demonstration 1. Farmer Network Bioenergy plots 20 acres of a variety of Bioenergy crops will be grown each year through the existing farmer network. $300 of grant funding per acre will be allotted for growing these crops in a demonstration/research format. Accomplished 2015 2. MSU Bioenergy Demonstration Farm10 acres of a variety of energy groups will be grown each year on the Hutson Farm. $300 of grant funding per acre will be allotted for growing these crops in a demonstration/research format. Accomplished 2015 Objective #2: Bioenergy Utilization- the energy crops produced under objective 1 and Biomass equine waste will be used to demonstrate the utilization of the Bioenergy products. 1. The project will install two bioburner units to heat a riding arena that is 220' x 170' and is presently devoid of heat. BB- 500 utilized for one trial period (2015) including emissions testing Objective #3: Bioenergy Research: The Bioenergy products grown in objective 1 and utilized in objective 2 will be researched for potential usage in a closed loop Bioenergy system. The following research will be conducted by all partners 1. Field researchers will be conducted to determine costs and production capabilities of various Bioenergy crops. Test began and continuing 2. Utilization research will be conducted to determine energy efficiencies of various Bioenergy crops and Biomass equine waste. Test began and continuing 3. Research reports will be produced indicating results and potential for trial implementation Poster with results developed and presented at Posters at the Capitol in Kentucky and Murray State University Scholar's Week in 2015 Objective #4: Bioenergy Education and Outreach Activities: 1. Educational Activities 1. Create a new Introduction to Bioenergy class Faculty and student worker began work on project 2. Create a new Bioenergy Practicum class for experiential learning opportunities Faculty and student worker began work on project 3. Revise the universities AGR 100 Contemporary Issues in Agriculture to include a unit on Bioenergy Discussions underway 4. Revise the Emerging Technology Emphasis to include courses in Bioenergy Discussions underway 5. Develop a graduate level class in Bioenergy Systems to be included in the new sustainability Master of Science program in the College of Science Graduate level classes were developed and approved as part of a new sustainability option in the online Master of Science program in Agriculture and are included in the Master of Science in Sustainability for the College of Science. 1. Outreach Activities: 1. Host Agriculture Bioenergy Field Day annually 2014 Bioenergy Day hosted in October 2014 2. Participate in relevant area farm shows and field days Hosted several field days on the university farm and bioenergy center; Live remote T.V. viewing of bio-burner project 3. Utilize mobile demonstration unit to demonstrate closed loop system Mobile unit currently unavailable 4. Produce an instructional/informative video documenting the "field to fuel" technologies Planning Stages Host visits to the BUDREC to show communities, entrepreneurs, industry and farmers how Bioenergy crops/products can be grown, harvested, processed and utilized for lead energy in their homes, businesses, buildings and farms. Numerous visits hosted

    Publications

    • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2015 Citation: "Bioenergy Crop Production and Combustion in Agriculture" (2015 Kentucky Posters at the Capitol in Frankfurt, KY)
    • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2015 Citation: "Bioenergy Crop Production and Combustion in Agriculture" (2015 Scholar's Week at Murray State University)
    • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2015 Citation: "Bioenergy Crop Production and Combustion in Agriculture" (2015 Real World Market at Murray State University)
    • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Submitted Year Published: 2015 Citation: BioEnergy Utilization, Demonstration, Research and Education Center. Poster Presentation at the Non-Land Grant Agriculture and Renewable Resources Universities (NARRU) conference. Kansas City, Missouri. October, 2015.
    • Type: Theses/Dissertations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2015 Citation: Jablinski, Anne (2015). Bioenergy Conversion via Small-Scale Combustion of Agricultural Biomass in a Bio-Burner TM Unit. Unpublished undergraduate research article
    • Type: Theses/Dissertations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2015 Citation: Keiser, Clayton (2015). Analysis of Five Agricultural biomass Fuel Sources Burned at Murray State University in a BioBurner Combustion Unit. Unpublished masters research article


    Progress 09/01/14 to 08/31/15

    Outputs
    Target Audience:The target audience for this project includes agriculture in general as well as students, investors, economic developers, local communities, entrepreneurs and industry personnel utilizing the Western Regional Center for Emerging Technology (WRCET) and the Regional Business Innovation Center (RBIC) at Murray State University. The Hutson School of Agriculture will work on growing specific dedicated bioenergy crops and utilizing them and other biomass sources as a source of energy to create a closed loop "field to fuel" bioenergy system. The Jones College of Science Engineering and Technology scientists and engineers will be involved in researching energy production, conversion efficiencies, and fuel chemistry. The Bauernfeind College of Business will also provide support for economic research and curriculum development. The Area Development Districts (Purchase and Pennyrile) will be able to utilize this center as they work with farmers and industries in our area in the area of alternative energy. Several other identified partners will all be encompassed in our expert service model. All of this strengthens the capacity of Murray State University to have an infrastructure to support research through this expert service center. Changes/Problems:Only issue to report is the delay in acquisition of the mobile unit for demonstration purposes. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Faculty, staff and students in 2014-15 were provided training on how to operate BB-500 by L.E.I. products personnel out of Madisonville, Kentucky. Faculty and staff involved on the project instructed students on proper instrument utilization. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Data and results were recorded and organized on a research poster and presented at the 2015 Kentucky Posters at the Capitol gathering, as well as Murray State University's Scholar's Week and Real World Market. Numerous tours and visits were hosted to third parties throughout the year. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Progress on goals underway will continue. Any projects not yet begun will be initiated. Further development of data acquisition instrumentation and fine-tuning of the mobile unit will continue.

    Impacts
    What was accomplished under these goals? Objective #1: Bioenergy Crop Demonstration 1. Farmer Network Bioenergy plots 20 acres of a variety of Bioenergy crops will be grown each year through the existing farmer network. $300 of grant funding per acre will be allotted for growing these crops in a demonstration/research format.Accomplished 2015 2. MSU Bioenergy Demonstration Farm 10 acres of a variety of energy groups will be grown each year on the Hutson Farm. $300 of grant funding per acre will be allotted for growing these crops in a demonstration/research format.Accomplished 2015 Objective #2: Bioenergy Utilization- the energy crops produced under objective 1 and Biomass equine waste will be used to demonstrate the utilization of the Bioenergy products. 1. The project will install two bioburner units to heat a riding arena that is 220' x 170' and is presently devoid of heat.BB-500 utilized for one trial period (2015) including emissions testing Objective #3: Bioenergy Research:The Bioenergy products grown in objective 1 and utilized in objective 2 will be researched for potential usage in a closed loop Bioenergy system. The following research will be conducted by all partners 1. Field researchers will be conducted to determine costs and production capabilities of various Bioenergy crops. Test began and continuing 2. Utilization research will be conducted to determine energy efficiencies of various Bioenergy crops and Biomass equine waste.Test began and continuing 3. Research reports will be produced indicating results and potential for trial implementation Poster with results developed and presented at Posters at the Capitol in Kentucky and Murray State University Scholar's Week in 2015 Objective #4:Bioenergy Education and OutreachActivities: 1. Educational Activities 1. Create a new Introduction to Bioenergy classFaculty and student worker began work on project 2. Create a new Bioenergy Practicum class for experiential learning opportunitiesFaculty and student worker began work on project 3. Revise the universities AGR 100 Contemporary Issues in Agriculture to include a unit on BioenergyDiscussions underway 4. Revise the Emerging Technology Emphasis to include courses in BioenergyDiscussions underway 5. Develop a graduate level class in Bioenergy Systems to be included in the new sustainability Master of Science program in the College of ScienceGraduate level classes were developed and approved as part of a new sustainability option in the online Master of Science program in Agriculture and are included in the Master of Science in Sustainability for the College of Science. 1. Outreach Activities: 1. Host Agriculture Bioenergy Field Day annually 2014 Bioenergy Day hosted in October 2014 2. Participate in relevant area farm shows and field daysHosted several field days on the university farm and bioenergy center; Live remote T.V. viewing of bio-burner project 3. Utilize mobile demonstration unit to demonstrate closed loop systemMobile unit currently unavailable 4. Produce an instructional/informative video documenting the "field to fuel" technologiesPlanning Stages Host visits to the BUDREC to show communities, entrepreneurs, industry and farmers how Bioenergy crops/products can be grown, harvested, processed and utilized for lead energy in their homes, businesses, buildings and farms.Numerous visits hosted

    Publications

    • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2015 Citation: "Bioenergy Crop Production and Combustion in Agriculture" (2015 Kentucky Posters at the Capitol in Frankfurt, KY)
    • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2015 Citation: "Bioenergy Crop Production and Combustion in Agriculture" (2015 Scholar's Week at Murray State University)
    • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2015 Citation: "Bioenergy Crop Production and Combustion in Agriculture" (2015 Real World Market at Murray State University)
    • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Submitted Year Published: 2015 Citation: BioEnergy Utilization, Demonstration, Research and Education Center. Poster Presentation at the Non-Land Grant Agriculture and Renewable Resources Universities (NARRU) conference. Kansas City, Missouri. October, 2015.
    • Type: Theses/Dissertations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2015 Citation: Jablinski, Anne (2015). Bioenergy Conversion via Small-Scale Combustion of Agricultural Biomass in a Bio-Burner TM Unit. Unpublished undergraduate research article
    • Type: Theses/Dissertations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2015 Citation: Keiser, Clayton (2015). Analysis of Five Agricultural biomass Fuel Sources Burned at Murray State University in a Bio-Burner Combustion Unit. Unpublished masters research article


    Progress 09/01/13 to 08/31/14

    Outputs
    Target Audience: The designated target audience for this reporting period included all agriculture in general, as well as students, investors, economic developers, local communities, entrepreneurs and industry personnel utilizing the Western Regional Center for Emerging Technology (WRCET) and the Regional Business Innovation Center (RBIC) at Murray State University. The Hutson School of Agriculture will work on growing specific dedicated bioenergy crops and utilizing them and other biomass sources as a source of energy to create a closed loop "field to fuel" bioenergy system. The Jones College of Science Engineering and Technology scientists and engineers will be involved in researching energy production, conversion efficiencies, and fuel chemistry. The Bauernfeind College of Business will also provide support for economic research and curriculum development. The Area Development Districts (Purchase and Pennyrile) will be able to utilize this center as they work with farmers and industries in our area in the area of alternative energy. Several other identified partners will all be encompassed in our expert service model. All of this strengthens the capacity of Murray State University to have an infrastructure to support research through this expert service center. Changes/Problems: Only issue to report is the delay in acquisition of the mobile unit for demonstration purposes. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Faculty, staff and students in 2013-14 were provided training on how to operate BB-100 by L.E.I. products personnel out of Madisonville, Kentucky. Faculty involved on the project instructed students on proper instrument utilization. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Data and results were recorded and organized on a research poster and presented at the 2014 Kentucky Posters at the Capitol gathering. The poster was also accepted at the U.S. Department of Energy Biomass 2014 conference. Numerous tours and visits were hosted to third parties throughout the year. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Progress will continue on all goals for the project. Projects not yet underway will be discussed and developed. Bioenergy 2014 will be hosted in October.

    Impacts
    What was accomplished under these goals? Objective #1: Bioenergy Crop Demonstration Farmer Network Bioenergy plots 20 acres of a variety of Bioenergy crops will be grown each year through the existing farmer network. $300 of grant funding per acre will be allotted for growing these crops in a demonstration/research format. Accomplished 2014 MSU Bioenergy Demonstration Farm 10 acres of a variety of energy groups will be grown each year on the Hutson Farm. $300 of grant funding per acre will be allotted for growing these crops in a demonstration/research format.Accomplished 2014 Objective #2: Bioenergy Utilization- the energy crops produced under objective 1 and Biomass equine waste will be used to demonstrate the utilization of the Bioenergy products. The project will install two bioburner units to heat a riding arena that is 220' x 170' and is presently devoid of heat.BB-100 utilized for two trial periods (2013-2014) and BB-500 installation was continuing through fall 2014. Objective #3: Bioenergy Research:The Bioenergy products grown in objective 1 and utilized in objective 2 will be researched for potential usage in a closed loop Bioenergy system. The following research will be conducted by all partners Field researchers will be conducted to determine costs and production capabilities of various Bioenergy crops.Test began and continuing Utilization research will be conducted to determine energy efficiencies of various Bioenergy crops and Biomass equine waste.Test began and continuing Research reports will be produced indicating results and potential for trial implementationPoster with results developed and presented at Posters at the Capitol in Kentucky, Scholar's Week at Murray State University, and the U.S. Department of Energy Biomass 2014 in Washington, D.C. Objective #4:Bioenergy Education and OutreachActivities: Educational Activities Create a new Introduction to Bioenergy classFaculty and student worker began work on project Create a new Bioenergy Practicum class for experiential learning opportunitiesFaculty and student worker began work on project Revise the universities AGR 100 Contemporary Issues in Agriculture to include a unit on BioenergyDiscussions underway Revise the Emerging Technology Emphasis to include courses in BioenergyDiscussions underway Develop a graduate level class in Bioenergy Systems to be included in the new sustainability Master of Science program in the College of ScienceGraduate level classes were developed and approved as part of a new sustainability option in the online Master of Science program in Agriculture and are included in the Master of Science in Sustainability for the College of Science. Outreach Activities: Host Agriculture Bioenergy Field Day annuallyPlans for 2014 Bioenergy Day began Participate in relevant area farm shows and field daysHosted several field days on the university farm and bioenergy center Utilize mobile demonstration unit to demonstrate closed loop systemMobile unit currently unavailable Produce an instructional/informative video documenting the "field to fuel" technologiesPlanning Stages Host visits to the BUDREC to show communities, entrepreneurs, industry and farmers how Bioenergy crops/products can be grown, harvested, processed and utilized for lead energy in their homes, businesses, buildings and farms.Numerous visits hosted

    Publications

    • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2014 Citation: Biomass-Green Energy for the Future of Agriculture (Kentucky Posters at the Capitol; Frankfort, KY)
    • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2014 Citation: Biomass-Green Energy for the Future of Agriculture (Biomass 2014; Washington D.C.)