Biofuels Revolution - Camelina sativa
Camelina sativa is a rapid growth – 85-100 days from seed to harverst– omega-3 rich oilseed known by many common names such as "Leindotter" and "False Flax". Recognized for its insect resistance and low nutrient requirements, Camelina is celebrated as a viable and desirable feedstock for the rapidly expanding biofuel industry.
It is well appropriated for growth in the Southwest of the United States and Northeastern Brazil's (semi-arid, sertão) climates due to its hearty and low-demand characteristics. Its growth is neither affected by the warmer temperatures of the these regions nor the limited rainfall and resulting low soil moisture. Camelina can yield between 1,100 to 2,200 pounds per acre with less than 16 inches of rain per year, translating to between 200 and 300 gallons of B100 biodiesel.
Being a non-food feedstock that can be grown on marginal lands, Camelina requires minimal inputs such as fertilizer and water, and is harvested with traditional equipment like ones used for canola, rapeseed, alfalfa. A distant cousin to canola, Camelina can prove to be a high quality, competitively priced energy crop; while enhancing farm revenues, it can advantage both the environment and national energy deficit. Additionally, once the oil is extracted, its byproduct can be used for nutriceuticals (mainly omega-3), as well as, feed supplies for fish, poultry, dairy, and beef production.
Camelina & Renewable Energy
• High oil content with low viscosity and resistance to low temperature
• Fuel-specific, does not compete for land use with food crops
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Production
Camelina is well-suited to marginal land. Camelina may also be grown in dry climates, such as the Southwestern United States and Northeastern Brazil (semi-arid, sertão).
Attributes
- Low inputs –fertilizer, pesticides, water
- High quality oil seed content – up to 40%
- Robust– responds well in a variety of soils
- Rapid growth – 85-100 days from seed to harvest
- Adaptable – can be integrated into current crop rotations
- Well suited for growth in the Southwest
- Its by-product rich in Omega3 can be used as feed supplies for fish, poultry, dairy, and beef production.