A new report from Minnesota-based MBOLD is highlighting growing interest in winter camelina as farmers across the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest look for alternative crops that can improve profitability and sustainability. The report, developed through MBOLD’s Protein Catalyst initiative and the Agricultural Utilization Research Institute in Crookston, examined the potential for winter camelina meal to be used in cattle, dairy, swine, and poultry feed rations. Researchers say winter camelina is drawing increased attention because it can serve as both an oilseed cover crop and a feed ingredient while also supporting expanding renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel markets. Supporters say the crop may help improve soil health, add crop diversity, and provide producers with another income opportunity during a period of tighter farm margins and growing weed pressure challenges. Interest in winter camelina has also expanded through the Forever Green Initiative at the University of Minnesota and outreach efforts from North Dakota State University. Researchers say additional work is still needed to better understand feed value, pricing, and long-term adoption potential as demand for low-carbon biofuel feedstocks continues to grow.
