Western Research and Demonstration Farm
Location
Monona County
Directions:
Go 4 miles east of Castana on County Road E-34.
Western Research Farm
36515 Hwy E34
Castana, IA 51010
(712) 885-2802
Map view of Western Research and Demonstration Farm
Size
280 acres
Owners
Western Iowa Experimental Farm Association
History
The association purchased the farm in 1946. In 2002, an additional 40 acres was given to the farm.
Soils
Gently sloping ridges and steep side slopes that gradually change to well-defined valleys characterize this re
gion. Sloping soils are very erosive and require terracing, contouring and other conservation practices. Predominant soils are:
Ida:
6-30 percent slope, well drained, occurs on narrow divides and steep side slopes
Monona:
5-14 percent slope, well drained, occurs on ridges and s strongly sloping side slopes
Research and Demonstration
Swine. Research focuses on alternative pig production. The ISU Hoop Research Complex is located at the farm. Studies on animal density, pork quality, alternative feeds and wean-to-finish approaches are conducted with finishing pigs. Researchers include scientists from animal science and extension.
Forage. Performance of young cattle is evaluated using various rotational grazing systems. Cover crops are studied for their potential as a grazed forage and their impact on crop yields, soil quality and nutrient management properties. Native plants in the Loess hills also are being researched. The farm staff helps with research projects in area farmers’ fields.
Facilities
Extensive pastures support grazing and forage studies. Deep-bedded hoop structures are used in the alternative swine production project. The Hoop Research Complex consists of three full-sized hoop barns equipped with six pens for six pigs each.