As the Morrow Plots celebrate 150 years of continuous discovery, a yearlong series of events will honor this living legacy and explore the future of agricultural innovation.
The College of ACES invites the campus community, partners, and friends to engage with the history and impact of the plots. This calendar will continue to grow and evolve throughout the year — check back often and mark your calendar to join us.
Big Ten Network Documentary Features Morrow Plots
This summer, tune in to the Big Ten Network for an inside look at one of Illinois’ most remarkable living laboratories — the Morrow Plots. Located in the heart of campus, these historic fields have shaped the future of agriculture for nearly 150 years, advancing our understanding of crop rotation, soil fertility, and sustainable farming practices. The documentary traces the plots’ origins from Manly Miles’ early vision inspired by England’s Rothamsted experiments, through their expansion under George E. Morrow, to today’s cutting-edge research exploring soil health, greenhouse emissions, and long-term agricultural systems. Viewers will see how scientists manage this small but powerful research site, explore the value of its extensive dataset, and learn how new initiatives, such as the Alma Mater Plots, are building on this legacy to drive future discovery.
Shaping the Next 150 Years of Agricultural Research
Aug 11, 2026 7:45 a.m.
For 150 years, the Morrow Plots have helped scientists answer some of agriculture’s most important questions through long-term field research. Now, you can help shape what comes next. Join Crop Sciences faculty, researchers, and stakeholders for “Alma Mater Plots: The Next Era of Long-Term University Research,” a collaborative discussion about the future of long-term agricultural research at the University of Illinois. Building on the legacy of the Morrow Plots, participants will help envision the next generation of experiments designed to address the challenges facing agriculture in the decades ahead.
Celebrate Food and Ag Day
September 19, 2026
Bring your orange and blue spirit and join us for Celebrate Food & Ag Day — our annual tailgate tradition with even more reason to cheer. This year, we’re marking a historic milestone as we celebrate 150 years of the Morrow Plots, honoring the discoveries that have shaped agriculture and the future they continue to inspire. Mark your calendar, rally your friends, and come celebrate innovation, community, and Illini pride with us on game day.
Special Archives Exhibits at the Main Library
October 2026
Discover 150 years of agricultural discovery through a special series of exhibits hosted by the University of Illinois Archives this October in the Main Library. Six curated displays will showcase the history and impact of the Morrow Plots through photographs, documents, artifacts, and never-before-shown materials from the university’s collections. Take a stroll through campus history, explore the stories behind this iconic research site, and experience the legacy of the Morrow Plots up close.
Mark your calendar.
Morrow Plots Trivia Event
October 14, 2026
Join us on Oct. 14 for a special Morrow Plots Trivia event hosted by the University of Illinois Archives. Gather a team of 4–5 and test your knowledge through three interactive rounds — including multiple choice, Q&A, and “name that image” — exploring the science, stories, and legacy of this iconic research site. This event will take place in the Heritage Room of the ACES Library, Information and Alumni Center, over the noon hour.
More details to come.
Morrow Plots 150th Anniversary Celebration
October 28, 2026
Join us for a community celebration marking the 150th anniversary of the Morrow Plots and the unveiling of the Alma Mater Plots. The event will feature remarks honoring a century and a half of discovery, guided tours of the historic research fields, and a first look at the Alma Mater Plots. Participants will explore the legacy and future of long-term agricultural research while celebrating this milestone together.
More details to come.
Morrow Plots 150th Anniversary Symposium
October 29–30, 2026
This international scientific symposium brings together leading researchers to celebrate the Morrow Plots and the global impact of long-term agricultural research. Through invited lectures and collaborative discussions, participants will explore the design, implementation, and future of long-term agronomic research systems and their role in advancing sustainable agriculture.
More details to come.
Toast to 150 Years with Riggs Beer Brewed with Morrow Plots Corn
Thursday, December 3, 2026
Raise a glass to 150 years of discovery with a special seasonal release from Riggs Beer Company, brewed with corn grown in the historic Morrow Plots. Crafted by ACES alumnus Matthew Riggs, this limited-edition brew celebrates the legacy of one of the world’s most influential agricultural research sites while showcasing the impact of Illinois-grown innovation. Available this holiday season, it’s a unique way to experience the Morrow Plots — from field to glass.
More details to come.
Do you have an event to add to this lineup? Reach out to let us know at aces@illinois.edu.