A new report compiled by the University of Missouri Extension at the request of the Missouri Soybean Association looks at the ways farmers have improved soil conservation and reduced greenhouse gas emissions, as well as the impact of climate change on agriculture.

Among the report’s findings were that agriculture is reducing emissions per unit of production by improving efficiency, and that data shows weather patterns will challenge production and require continued innovation.

Alittle more than a decade ago, carbon trading markets were emerging. But that fledging market collapsed and the idea struggled to get a foothold again until recently.

Now, a second wave is strengthening, thanks in part to support from the Biden administration. It is different than last time around, some experts say.

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Last year, researchers focused on improving yields by enhancing the effectiveness of photosynthesis saw tobacco and soybean yield increase by 20% over conventional varieties.

Research will progress with two new buildings this year at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. The RIPE (Realizing Increased Photosynthetic Efficiency) Crop Transformation Facility provides lab space for researchers. And the RIPE High-Throughput Phenotyping Facility includes a full greenhouse to help the project move an increasing number of transgenic traits from model to crop systems, said Steve Long, RIPE director.

DENISON, Iowa — Kelly Garrett has his eyes set on the Iowa record books. To get his farm there, he is always trying new things.

“I want to set the state record on corn,” the northwest Iowa farmer said. “It’s 442 (bushels per acre). I want to break it.”