Sustainable Agriculture

Sustainable agriculture techniques that minimize waste and environmental impacts are demonstrated throughout the orchard and along the trails. Experimental ground covers are found between trees and various row crops. For example, several types of grasses are being tested for their hardiness and minimal water usage. These types of ground covers not only conserve precious water, but they also minimize the need for maintenance and chemical controls, and are also valuable in holding the soil against erosion. Kimmel is also a testing ground for "alley cropping" techniques conducted by the University of Nebraska's Natural Resource Conservation Service. Alley cropping makes thrifty use of the land, utilizing space between young orchard trees for additional value-added crops such as soybeans. Education at Kimmel Orchard goes beyond production and harvest, and demonstrates to visitors the importance of caring for the land through stewardship and sustainable agricultural practices.

Partners



The Kimmels championed the benefits of higher education, and in 1925 began work with the University to develop a research facility for alternative crops.

History



Richard P. Kimmel grew up in Nebraska City where he attended school and graduated in 1915. After high school, he attended Cornell College in Mount Vernon.

U-Pick



The study and development of agricultural-related tourism is an important focus of the Kimmel Education and Research Center (KERC) at Kimmel Orchard.

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