SWITCHGRASS CULTIVATION ON RECLAIMED M INELAND W ITH SOME AMENDMENTS

Abstract

Reclaimed mining rocks can be potential lands for biofuel feedstock production. Minelands are considered marginal because they often have low organic matter contents and adverse soil physical and chemical characteristics. Establishing perennial grasses such as switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) on these lands can be an economically viable option to produce cellulosic biomass with the addition of biological agents such as fertilizers, cinder and sewage sludge.