Transforming Drainage

Our project team consists of leading drainage researchers and extension specialists across the Midwest, as well as modeling experts and social scientists who will strengthen the science and outreach related to water management issues facing agriculture in the Corn Belt. The project team includes internationally-known researchers for each of the drainage water storage practices, and the team together with collaborators includes Extension agricultural engineers in every state with widespread subsurface drainage. The social science component will focus on the economics of the drainage water storage practices, which research has shown is a key influence on farmer adoption of conservation practices. Our team also includes expertise in decision-support tools, including effective stakeholder involvement in their development. Our diverse team members will form the core of a broader network.