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U of I’s Morrow Plots set for renovations in preparation of 150th anniversary
North America’s oldest experimental agricultural fields are set for a major transformation.
German Bollero, Dean of the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES) at the University of Illinois, says the world-renowned Morrow Plots are being renovated in time for their upcoming 150th anniversary.
“The Morrow Plots have a long history on this campus of being sacred ground, right? So, you know, nothing can project a shadow, and currently they’re surrounded by green hedges.” He says, “We are taking those green hedges down, and we’re going to have a new fence put all around, and they’re is gonna be some artistic parts of that fence.”
He tells Brownfield there’s a reason the plots on the Urbana campus receive visitors from around the world.
“It is the second-longest experiment in the world, and it is the oldest one that has corn in it.” He says, “Some of the experiments in the Morrow Plots have never received any fertilizer, any amendments, any changes for 150 years.”
Bollero says the revitalization is being supported by a gift from Bayer Crop Science.
“Sort of a testimony of a long-term vision for agriculture, and long-term investments into agriculture, and looking into how technology and science have helped producers to continue to be productive, effective, and profitable,” he says.
In a release, Masha Trenhaile, head of university strategy and outreach with Bayer’s Crop Science division, says the company sees the project not only as an investment in a historic landmark, but also as a tribute to the scientific progress and partnerships that will carry agriculture forward.
Bollero says, “Part of this project is also the installation of a live camera,” He says, “In a few months, you’ll be able to see the Morrow Plots every day, if you want, from all over the world on the internet.”
He says completion is expected in time for anniversary celebrations in the fall of 2026.
AUDIO: German Bollero – U of I College of ACES
Hello, Masha, I am a 85 year old alumnus of U of Illinois, Agriculture. I read the article on revitalization of the Morrow plot.
What other things are planned for the project. I noted in the article that there two specific things to do: remove overgrown shrubs and put 24 hour camera(s) on the plots. James V. Parochetti Illionios alumnuss 1962.