Celebrating 150 Years of the Morrow Plots
Established in 1876, the Morrow Plots stand as a living symbol of the University of Illinois’ land-grant mission: a commitment to generate knowledge, educate future leaders, and share discoveries in service to society. What began as a long-term study of farming practices has become a powerful reflection of our responsibility to steward the land, advance science, and serve communities.
The Morrow Plots have advanced agricultural understanding while reminding us that what we invest today shapes what we harvest tomorrow. Located at the heart of campus, they continue to represent the College of ACES’ enduring commitment to discovery, education, and public impact.

Celebrate 150 Years of the Morrow Plots
Join a yearlong series of events honoring the legacy of the Morrow Plots and exploring the future of agricultural discovery.
Latest News
Meet the ACES alum behind a gift to revitalize the Morrow Plots
Bayer gift launches Morrow Plots revitalization for 150th anniversary
ACES marks 150 Years of the Morrow Plots, our nation’s oldest research field
Morrow Plots Data Drives Discoveries
Explore how 150 years of research at the Morrow Plots have shaped modern agriculture and continue to drive discovery for the future.
The Morrow Plots reflect the very best of our land-grant mission — a tremendous legacy of discovery in service to agriculture and society. We are not simply beneficiaries; we are entrusted to carry this living resource forward so it may continue to serve generations to come.
Germán Bollero
Professor and Dean, Robert A. Easter ChairCollege of Agricultural, Consumer & Environmental Sciences
Experience the Legacy of the Morrow Plots
Explore photographs, documents, and historical materials that capture the people, research, and discoveries that have shaped the Morrow Plots across generations.