Cowpease with Husks (IMAGE) American Society of Agronomy Caption Cowpeas are a major source of protein. Growing them more reliably in areas with risk of drought increases food security. Credit Photo credit Martha Pings. Usage Restrictions Please use with story only. License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.