Switchgrass is being evaluated as a potential feedstock source for cellulosic biofuels and is being
cultivated in several regions of the United States. The recent availability of switchgrass land cover maps
derived from the National Agricultural Statistics Service cropland data layer for the conterminous United
States provides an opportunity to assess the environmental conditions of switchgrass over large areas
and across different geographic locations. The main goal of this study is to develop a data-driven multiple
regression switchgrass productivity model and identify the optimal climate and environment conditions
for the highly productive switchgrass in the Great Plains (GP). Environmental and climate variables used
in the study include elevation, soil organic carbon, available water capacity, climate, and seasonal
weather. Satellite-derived growing season averaged Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (GSN) was
used as a proxy for switchgrass productivity. Multiple regression analyses indicate that there are strong
correlations between site environmental variables and switchgrass productivity (r = 0.95). Sufficient
precipitation and suitable temperature during the growing season (i.e., not too hot or too cold) are
favorable for switchgrass growth. Elevation and soil characteristics (e.g., soil available water capacity) are
also an important factor impacting switchgrass productivity. An anticipated switchgrass biomass
productivity map for the entire GP based on site environmental and climate conditions and switchgrass
productivity model was generated. Highly productive switchgrass areas are mainly located in the eastern
part of the GP. Results from this study can help land managers and biofuel plant investors better
understand the general environmental and climate conditions influencing switchgrass growth and make
optimal land use decisions regarding switchgrass development in the GP.