Scientists hope to improve legume crops

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Scientists with the Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation and the University of Oklahoma plan to decipher the genetic blueprint of a legume plant, a discovery they say could ultimately lead to improved varieties of crops.

The non-profit philanthropic foundation has already spent $5 million doing preliminary work for the project, and has decided to dedicate an additional $5 million, said Michael A. Cawley, the foundation's president.

The project will take five years and cost $45 million, he said.