Southwest Research and Outreach Center
Lamberton, Minn.

The Southwest Research and Outreach Center (SWROC) is home to the Elwell Agroecology Farm (EAF), 160 acres with 30-plus years of minimal pesticide and fertilizer application, limited tile drainage and high weed pressure. These characteristics have presented researchers with excellent opportunities for developing cropping systems studies, as well as studies on fertility, water quality, low input and organic input management and tile drainage. Excluding native prairie areas and two farm groves, the remaining 120 acres of land has been certified since 1998. Studies conducted on the EAF have involved more than 20 University researchers.

At the SWROC…

Over 70 research projects are conducted annually at the SWROC by faculty located at the Center in collaboration with other ROC faculty and those located on the University of Minnesota-St. Paul campus.

Major areas of research include:

• organic agriculture ecology
• nutrient management
• conservation tillage
• precision farming
• tile drainage
• soil quality
• natural prairie restoration

Faculty with Extension appointments deliver educational outreach programs with a University-wide research base. These programs address critical issues pertaining to:

• farm management and marketing
• livestock systems
• integrated pest management
• family development
• K-12 education

Contact Information

Southwest Research and Outreach Center
23669 130th Street
Lamberton, Minnesota 56152
Phone: 507-752-7372 Phone
Fax: 507-752-5097