Researchers at the Land Institute, near Salina, Kansas, have worked since 2003 to develop a perennial grain crop that will replace some of the annual wheat grown around the world. They have recently released Kernza®, an improved variety of intermediate wheatgrass that is being used, along with wheat flower, in baked goods, used alone in quick breads such as pancakes and muffins, or served as a pilaf.
The advantage to planting a perennial crop is that it protects the soil from wind and water erosion, is more tolerant to drought, and requires less inputs of fuel, fertilizer and herbicides.