Mason City Public Library District, 820 W Chestnut St, Mason City, IL 62664, US

The National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research (NCAUR) in Peoria, IL is one of the largest agricultural research centers in the United States, employing nearly 200 scientists and support staff. Their research focuses on improving agricultural production, food safety, public health, economic development, and environmental quality. NCAUR scientists work on a wide range of projects, including the development of new crops, such as pennycress and sorghum, that have commercial potential as oilseed and gluten-free grain crops. They also study the use of plant-derived compounds, like essential oils, for pest control, and explore ways to reduce agricultural inputs and waste to protect the environment. Additionally, NCAUR scientists analyze fungal pathogens that affect cereal crops and contaminate grain, aiming to develop targeted control strategies to mitigate crop losses and ensure food safety.Generated from the website