Mark Windham, a renowned plant pathologist, received the Gold Honor Medal for his decades-long contributions to rose disease research and education. He is considered one of the nation's leading authorities on rose rosette disease and has shared his expertise at thousands of events nationwide.
Jie Zhuang, a University of Tennessee professor of soil science, is among nine international SSSA Fellows recognized for his contributions to soil science and research. He has received numerous awards and is a Fellow with the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS).
Researchers at the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture have created hybrid materials that can detect and break down harmful farming chemicals. The materials, known as Cello-MOFs, use nanocellulose and metal-organic frameworks to absorb and decompose pollutants, making them a potential tool for quick monitoring and cleanup.
Jason Williams, interim director since 2025, is now permanent director of the AgResearch and Education Center at Milan. He will oversee projects like a community garden and expand precision agriculture initiatives.
The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture has appointed José Peiretti as its new row crop precision agriculture management Extension specialist. Peiretti brings 11 years of expertise in precision agriculture to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of technologies for precision planting, nutrient management, and more.
The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture launches F.U.S.E. Animal Science, a five-year fellowship program that integrates research, Extension, and professional development for undergraduate students. The program will provide students with hands-on experiences and mentorship to develop skills in areas such as animal nutritio...
Twelve universities competed in the annual Weed Contest, testing their weed science knowledge in six categories, including herbicide identification and team calibration. The University of Arkansas won the contest, and the University of Tennessee Weed Team took top honors in the team calibration event.
The University of Tennessee Herbert College of Agriculture has introduced a new Bachelor of Science in Bioinformatics program, combining biological sciences and data analytics. Graduates will enter high-demand careers with unique technical skills in precision agriculture and environmental sustainability.
Heather Kelly, a UTIA plant pathologist, has been selected as a Fulbright Distinguished Scholar to collaborate with researchers in Brazil. She will use advanced technologies to model soybean disease epidemics and predict potential threats to Tennessee row crop production.
The inaugural Southeast Farm and Forest Land Summit will bring together farmers, industry leaders, and state agencies to address rapid land use changes and their impact on rural communities. Participants will discuss ways to improve farm profitability, preserve working farmland, and explore policy options for sustainable agriculture.
Chika C. Okafor, a University of Tennessee Veterinary Public Health faculty member, has been named president-elect of the American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine (ACVPM) Epidemiology Specialty. He will help lead the national specialty in Veterinary Epidemiology before assuming the presidency in 2027.
Experts from the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture will present research-based recommendations on managing herbicide-resistant weeds. The event features presentations and practical control strategies for Palmer amaranth, goosegrass, and Italian ryegrass.
Andrew Muhammad, professor at University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, receives R.J. Hildreth Public Policy Award for his research and outreach in trade analysis and agricultural commodities. He is recognized for his career achievements in government service and education.
A project led by University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture researchers aims to reduce the use of synthetic nitrogen fertilizer by designing corn plants that better utilize nitrogen already in the soil. The goal is to decrease nitrous oxide emissions, increase nitrogen uptake, and optimize rooting patterns in corn.
Researchers at UT Institute of Agriculture identified a tick protein that could help block disease transmission before it fully happens. The study found that silencing the gene responsible for this protein reduced virus levels and hindered tick feeding.
Agricultural science educators in Tennessee and Nebraska benefit from professional development programs to create VR content and lessons. The programs aim to improve agricultural literacy and increase student interest in these careers through experiential learning.
Researchers found that Tennessee wine buyers are willing to pay more for wines featuring the state's Quality Assurance Program (QAP) label and those sourced from American Viticultural Areas (AVAs). Consumers also prefer higher-alcohol content wines. The study aims to improve the quality of Tennessee wines and promote the industry.
The 34th Milan No-Till Field Day will feature presentations on no-till farming strategies, agronomic practices, and cover crop management. The event also includes a trade show, guided tours of the AgResearch Center, and traditional skills sessions like blacksmithing.
The Tennessee State University College of Agriculture and the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture have launched a joint seed funding program to support collaborative research projects focused on precision agriculture, biotechnology, and food security. The program aims to develop solutions that benefit producers, communitie...
Researchers at UTIA are studying the genetic, cellular and microbial factors that influence feed efficiency in cattle. By identifying cell types, characterizing microbes and determining genetic influences, they aim to develop practical improvements for producers.
Researchers at UTIA and UT Knoxville create an automated sensor network to monitor compost piles, reducing labor costs and improving regulatory compliance. The new system uses battery-free sensors and machine learning algorithms to analyze temperature and moisture variations, enabling data-driven decision making.
Paul Plummer, UT College of Veterinary Medicine dean, joins the 2026 Class of Fellows of the American Academy of Microbiology. He was recognized for his scientific achievements and contributions to microbiology and antimicrobial resistance research.
A University of Tennessee team will evaluate the persistence of RNA interference-based biofungicides in controlled environment agriculture. The study aims to generate data for evidence-based decisions on genetically engineered organisms and their ecotoxicological effects.
University of Tennessee economist Charles Martinez recommends updating sales data reporting methods to account for the growing 'beef on dairy' trend. The trend involves breeding dairy cattle specifically for beef production, generating higher premiums for crossbred calves.
Larry Steckel, a leading expert in weed science, has been elected Fellow by the Weed Science Society of America. His research program focuses on managing multiple-herbicide-resistant weeds in row crop production, providing critical data for farmers to prevent yield loss.
The University of Tennessee Center for Dairy Advancement and Sustainability has received an additional $3.45 million in funding for the Southeast Dairy Business Innovation Initiative, a nationwide network to facilitate regional efforts to support dairy businesses.
Sindhu Jagadamma, associate professor of soil science at UTIA, received the Women in Science Mentoring Award for her support and encouragement to female students. The award recognizes individuals who promote women's advancement in sciences through mentoring and career guidance.
The Skill Up Tennessee Recovery Initiative aims to address the challenge of acquiring necessary job skills and finding employment for adults with substance abuse disorder. The initiative will provide vocational/technical training, work readiness training, and job retention support.
The National Champion Tree Program at the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture has compiled a compilation of more than 80 years of big tree history. The program marks two years at the university after moving in 2023 and is still taking nominations for potential trees through December 1.
The University of Tennessee AgResearch has received a $50-million investment to modernize its West Tennessee AgResearch and Education Center. The new facilities, precision agriculture equipment, and laboratory renovations will enhance on-site research and improve data quality.
Chris Sneed, a UT Extension consumer economics specialist, received the 2025 Excellence in Extension Award for his outstanding scientific programming, visionary leadership, and positive community impact. His programs address critical needs across various topics, including financial education and workforce development.
Researchers are analyzing leaf and soil samples from diverse areas to determine beneficial or harmful roles of different microbes. The study aims to improve crop production practices and overall yield by assessing the health of soil rhizosphere.
The Nationwide Herp Adoption Program provides a health-verified solution for surrendered reptiles and amphibians, offering invaluable training opportunities for future veterinarians. The program protects wild amphibians and reptiles by reducing the release of unwanted pets into the wild.
Robert T. Burns, a distinguished professor at UTIA, received the Cyrus Hall McCormick – Jerome Increase Case Gold Medal for his work on agricultural engineering and manure management systems. He was honored for his contributions to advancing the development of agriculture through new concepts and technologies.
A $500,000 ARC grant will strengthen the Rivertowns Program, support tourism planning, and expand access to outdoor recreation along the 652-mile Tennessee River. The project aims to promote personal well-being, strengthen community identity, and support long-term regional resilience.
Sindhu Jagadamma, a UTIA associate professor of soil science, will receive the award for her research on sustainable soil management practices that mitigate environmental problems. Her work focuses on implementing conservation management techniques, such as no-till and cover crops, to maintain soil health.
Researchers are studying the effects of Hurricane Helene flooding on agricultural land in Tennessee, with a focus on managing contaminants in croplands. The team aims to provide actionable knowledge to farmers and communities affected by the disaster.
Tim Rials, UT AgResearch associate dean, receives the 2025 Susan E. Duncan Meritorious Service Award for his exemplary contributions to agInnovation South and the land-grant ideal. He was recognized for his outstanding service and achievements in advancing agricultural innovation and sustainability.
Hongwei Xin, dean of UT AgResearch, has been awarded the Excellence in Leadership Award from agInnovation South. He is credited with enhancing the land-grant ideal through his outstanding service and achievements, which exemplify the leadership goals of agInnovation.
Yang Zhao, associate professor at University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, wins agInnovation Research Award of Excellence for his work on precision livestock farming and air quality. His research combines agricultural engineering and animal science to optimize production and address challenges in the poultry industry.
The VECTOR Library provides over 1,400 educational materials for preventing vector-borne diseases like Lyme disease and West Nile virus. Experts stress that community involvement and education are key to preventing disease spread.
Callie Robinson, a junior at the University of Tennessee Herbert College of Agriculture, has won the American Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers 2025 Collegiate Discussion Meet. Her victory marks the second consecutive year a Herbert student has achieved this recognition.
A new report by the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture recommends strengthening Tennessee's financial education requirement for high school students. The study suggests that increasing the instructional time devoted to personal finance in the curriculum and recommending full-credit courses would be beneficial. Additionall...
Kelsey Coffman, assistant professor at UTIA, is honored for her research on beneficial viruses in parasitoid wasps and their impact on insect interactions. She has received the Insects 2024 Young Investigator Award for her significant contributions to entomology.
Researchers describe the complex genome of the highly valued white oak (Quercus alba), providing insights into fundamental questions about plant evolution and tree breeding. The study sheds light on the evolutionary history of oaks, including the extent of genetic diversity and population differentiation.
Charles Martinez, assistant professor at the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, has received the SAEA Emerging Scholar Award for his distinguished research and outreach work. He is recognized for his contributions to farm and financial management, experimental economics, and livestock market economics.
The National Champion Tree Program is now accepting nominations for the 2025-2026 register, with over 1,200 eligible tree species. Nominations will be open through August 2025 and verified trees will be added to the program's data management system.
The Certified Landscape Professional course is designed for anyone managing ornamental landscapes or starting a career in the industry. Course topics include site assessment, landscape planning, and plant selection, with certification valid for two years.
The National Champion Tree Program has launched a new data management system to track the country's largest trees, featuring over 1,200 species and providing detailed information on each tree's measurements and cultural importance. The program aims to protect and preserve these giant trees through public education and engagement.
The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture has received a $210,000 grant to support ongoing integrated pest management programs across the state. The grant will focus on agronomic and specialty crops, pest control in houses and schools, and improving pollinator health.