Miscanthus (Elephant grass) exhibits very low nitrogen leaching

Another option for the mitigation toolbox?

Introduction

Miscanthus, an Asian perennial rhizomatous grass (Fig. 1), is grown as a biofuel crop in Europe1. It’s efficient C4 photosynthetic pathway delivers very high dry matter yields.

Fonterra’s Miscanthus investigations focus on co-firing with coal in factory boilers to reduce CO2 emissions, however other environmental benefits are possible.

Aim

To trial Miscanthus under wastewater irrigation and measure nitrogen leaching losses.