SDSU wheat researchers to delve into drought

University scientists must develop varieties of wheat that can tolerate drought, according to molecular biologist Jai Rohila, assistant professor of biology and microbiology.  That is the key to making agriculture sustainable in the face of climate change.

The SDSU spring wheat breeding program has never specifically tested its wheat varieties for drought tolerance, according to Karl Glover, associate professor of plant science. “We have material that seems to do well in a dry or hot year,” Glover said, but this could just be because the finishing time occurred before the hot conditions took hold.

“At this stage, we are not well prepared for drought conditions in South Dakota,” Rohila said.



For the complete article see the 03-18-2013 issue.

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