The Evaluation of Cool-Season Oil-Seed Crops for Texas.

Texas is one of the largest biodiesel production states in the U.S. with a current contribution of 14%, and a potential to expand even further. Identifying the most productive feedstock for biodiesel production is a key step in meeting the future demand in Texas. Starting in 2007, trials have been conducted at 9 locations across Texas with six potential crops (Safflower, Camelina, Radish, Low Euricic Acid Rapeseed (LEAR), High Euricic Acid Rapeseed (HEAR), and Flax). The main goals of the study are to determine the best crop for biodiesel production and to provide detailed information regarding the major biotic and abiotic stresses, agronomic characteristics and best management practices for these crops in Texas. In 2007- 2008, in College Station, TX., yield potential for the six test species ranged from 374 Kg/ha to 2106 Kg/ha. Flax recorded the highest yield (2106 Kg/ha) and Camellia recorded the lowest (374 Kg/ha). The oil content for different test species ranged from 21 to 42% w/w. Flax recorded the highest oil content (42%) and Safflower recorded the lowest (21%). The yield results for 2009-2010 were not encouraging compared to 2007-2008 because of the severe cold injury. The results from Texas panhandle area in the year 2009-2010 suggested that yields for different crop species were not economical because of the prevailed cold and heat stresses.  The reports from Beeville,TX. for the crop year 2009-2010 indicated that yields were encouraging, but with the coefficient of variation (CV) ranged from 30-64 % for different crop species. However, the cumulative results from College Station in the year 2007-2008 and Beeville in the year 2009-2010 suggested that flax is the most promising species for biodiesel production in Texas. Further results will be discussed and used to decide the most suitable biodiesel crop for Texas.