Final answer:
The available information does not provide a direct answer to whether MSU research in the 1960s enabled sod producers to triple their production per acre, but there was notable overall agricultural growth due to technological and scientific advancements.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question of whether research primarily done at Michigan State University (MSU) in the 1960s enabled sod producers to triple their production on a per acre basis isn't directly supported by the provided reference materials. The references supplied offer insight into agricultural developments over several periods but do not focus on sod production at MSU specifically. However, some context concerning agriculture can be inferred:
Overall, agricultural production and productivitPOST ANSWER
y per acre saw tremendous growth over the 20th century, with some challenges mitigated by the application of novel science and technology. In particular, the references shed light on the reliance on fertilizers and mechanization like the improvements to plows by James Oliver, as well as other technological advancements in farm equipment which all contributed to these increases. Additionally, the drive for higher yields sometimes led to environmental tolls such as soil degradation.
While major crop yields increased due to scientific advancements, soil health suffered in instances. This suggests that significant improvements in agricultural methods, including those techniques which could impact sod production, were indeed happening around that time, but a direct link to MSU's contribution to tripling sod production per acre in the 1960s cannot be established with the information given.