Research Plot 2 facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Research Plot 2
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| Location | Near jct. of Centennial Ave. and 18th St. N., North Dakota State University campus, Fargo, North Dakota |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1882 |
| NRHP reference No. | 91001474 |
| Added to NRHP | October 8, 1991 |
Research Plot 2 is a very special farm field located at North Dakota State University in Fargo, North Dakota. It's not just any field; it's a place where scientists have been growing wheat for a very long time. This makes it a unique outdoor laboratory for learning about plants and soil.
What is Research Plot 2?
This small piece of land was first used in 1882. Back then, it was wild prairie land. People cleared it to start growing crops. Since that year, spring wheat has been planted there every single year without stopping.
In 1991, Research Plot 2 was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This means it's recognized as an important historical site. Even though its official name on the list is "Agricultural Research Site," most people know it as Research Plot 2.
Why is This Field So Important?
Research Plot 2 is known as the oldest continuously farmed wheat field used for scientific studies. Its long history makes it incredibly valuable. Imagine a field where wheat has grown for over 140 years!
The soil in this field has become very special. It has built up many natural plant diseases, sometimes called "soil pathogens." These are like tiny germs that can make plants sick.
Helping New Wheat Grow Strong
Because the soil has these natural plant diseases, it's the perfect place to test new types of wheat. Scientists can plant new wheat varieties here to see if they are strong enough to resist the diseases. This helps them find and create new kinds of wheat that can grow well and feed more people, even when faced with plant sicknesses.
