A recent ecosystem modeling study by Iowa State University scientists shows that US crop production has led to a tripling of soil nitrous oxide emissions since 1900. The study found that agricultural soils, particularly those devoted to corn and soybean production, are the primary source of these emissions.
SourceIowa State University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 15, 2022
The review suggests that Telenomus remus has high potential to successfully suppress fall armyworm and related pests. A regional approach could work well, and the use of T. remus will be best done as part of an Integrated Pest Management programme.
SourceCABI·JournalCABI Agriculture and Bioscience·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 14, 2022
Research reveals that approximately 3 out of 4 Fusarium infections of northern Vietnamese bananas are caused by F. tardichlamydosporum and F. odoratissimum, with wild bananas potentially acting as a sink for the disease. The study's findings suggest that concrete measures can be taken to control the future spreading of the disease.
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Scientists at the University of Copenhagen have developed a method to produce non-alcoholic beer that tastes like regular beer, improving its flavor and sustainability. The technique involves using micro-factories of yeast cells to release hop aroma molecules, eliminating the need for expensive aroma hops.
SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateFeb 11, 2022
A new study finds that European diets must change to reduce climate impact, with feeding livestock low-opportunity-cost biomass offering a 31% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. The EAT-Lancet diet, which recommends reducing animal-source foods like red meat, is at odds with circular food systems that prioritize land use efficiency.
SourceCornell University·JournalNature Food·DateFeb 10, 2022
Researchers develop a new wheat mutant with broad-spectrum powdery mildew resistance, without growth or yield defects. They achieve this through multiplex genome editing, identifying the role of TaTMT3B in alleviating growth penalties associated with MLO disruption.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2022
A new study suggests that widespread use of genetically modified crops in the EU could prevent the release of 33 million tons of CO2 equivalents, equivalent to 7.5% of annual greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture. This is mainly due to reduced land-use change and preservation of the Amazon rainforest.
SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalTrends in Plant Science·DateFeb 8, 2022
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.
A study published by Hiroshima University researchers reveals that the TAB1 gene is essential for rice grain formation. The gene plays a critical role in maintaining stem cells until the last stage of flower development, leading to ovule formation and seed production.
SourceHiroshima University·JournalDevelopment·DateFeb 4, 2022
Scientists from Nagoya University investigate the formation of air channels in wetland plants, which help them survive floods and droughts. The study reveals that a phytohormone called auxin is required for normal root growth, and two factors lead to the induction of aerenchyma formation in response to flooding.
SourceNagoya University·JournalTrends in Plant Science·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 4, 2022
A group of plant pathologists have compiled a recovery plan to mitigate tar spot's impact on corn production. The plan reviews current knowledge and future needs, enabling the dissemination of best management practices across state lines.
SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPlant Health Progress·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 2022
Britain's urban areas have sufficient green space to support a large-scale 'grow your own' movement, meeting dietary needs and reducing reliance on imports. The study estimates that converted urban spaces could produce up to eight times the current UK fruit and vegetable output.
SourceLancaster University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 24, 2022
A new study by Sean Kennedy found that corporate sustainability efforts to adapt to climate change actually increase the vulnerability of small cocoa farmers in Indonesia. The researchers' strategy transfers climate-related risks from chocolate manufacturers to the farmers.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAnnals of the American Association of Geographers·TypeObservational study·DateJan 13, 2022
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.
The FUN-BioCROP model predicts effects of plant choice and agricultural management on soil carbon storage, slowing climate change. By using bioenergy from plants, less carbon dioxide is emitted into the atmosphere, resulting in a more sustainable energy source.
A recent study suggests that dairy farmers in the Northeast can reduce environmental impacts and maximize revenues by implementing double cropping and subsurface injection of manure into the soil. These strategies reduced total nitrogen losses by 12-18% and total phosphorus losses by 16-19%.
SourcePenn State·JournalAgricultural Systems·DateJan 5, 2022
Banana Blood disease has arrived in mainland Malaysia, spreading rapidly across the country and potentially threatening food security. The disease, first reported in Indonesia in 1905, has already devastated banana plantations in many parts of Southeast Asia.
SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPlant Disease·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 17, 2021
The study found that nitrogen fertilizer accelerated residue decomposition, producing more carbon dioxide and reducing the incorporation of residues into soil organic matter. This long-term problem can cause microbes to attack stable organic matter, leading to a decline in soil health.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalNitrogen·DateDec 15, 2021
University of Adelaide scientists developed a new simple and inexpensive method to detect low concentrations of agricultural lime in soils. The Mid Infrared spectroscopy technique allows for accurate detection of very small amounts of lime, enabling farmers to manage their soils more effectively.
SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalGeoderma·DateDec 13, 2021
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.
The study analyzed 32 rice cropping systems and found that around two-thirds of them have yields below optimal levels, highlighting opportunities for improvement through better management and breeding programs. Sustainable intensification can help increase crop yields while minimizing environmental impact.
SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 9, 2021
A $19 million research project will investigate the connection between grazing management decisions and soil health, aiming to improve soil resilience and productivity. The project, led by Noble Research Institute, will provide farmers and ranchers with tools to measure outcomes of soil health in grazing land environments.
Researchers have discovered that certain strains of Aspergillus can be used to degrade aflatoxins in crops, reducing the risk of food contamination. This biological control method utilizing biocontrol products is currently the most effective way to produce safe and healthy foods and feeds.
SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPlant Disease·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2021
Researchers have confirmed a Champaign County waterhemp population is resistant to dicamba, with a 65% control rate. The population shows signs of metabolic resistance, activating detoxification genes before the chemical can harm. This finding raises concerns about the potential for broader herbicide resistance.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalWeed Science·DateNov 29, 2021
A new Illinois study compares performance of static and dynamic nitrogen recommendation tools, finding that complex dynamic tools do not consistently increase profits but offer a 15% reduction in nitrogen leaching. The researchers highlight the need to refine these tools and prioritize environmental outcomes over economic gains.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalAgricultural Systems·DateNov 11, 2021
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.
Scientists discover that small RNAs recruit RNA Polymerase V to initiate DNA methylation, enabling crop breeders to avoid silencing from the start. This finding has substantial implications for reducing the cost and effort of producing transgenic crops.
SourceDonald Danforth Plant Science Center·JournalNature Plants·DateNov 9, 2021
Farmers in the African Sahel have developed crop diversity strategies to cope with high seasonal variability and rising temperatures caused by climate change. By alternating long and short-cycle crop varieties, such as sorghum and pearl millet, they maintain food security despite changing environmental conditions.
SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalJournal of Ethnobiology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 5, 2021
A NASA study published in Nature Food projects that climate change will affect crop yields as early as 2030. Maize yields are projected to decline by 24%, while wheat yields could increase by 17%. The changes are due to rising temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns, and elevated carbon dioxide concentrations.
SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalNature Food·DateNov 4, 2021
A NASA/PIK study found that new climate conditions will push crop yields outside of their normal range in more regions, particularly in breadbasket areas. This could lead to severe losses for farmers unless they adapt quickly by changing planting dates or using different crop varieties.
SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalNature Food·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 1, 2021
A new production model has been introduced to the Rwandan broiler industry, allowing smallholders to increase productivity and profitability. The model, which employs a hybrid asset-building approach, provides an entry point for small-scale producers to compete with larger operations.
SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·JournalWorld s Poultry Science Journal·DateOct 29, 2021
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.
A team of scientists found that technology adoption as a water-saving method for improving irrigation efficiency is ineffective and can worsen water scarcity. The study suggests that modern irrigation technologies may only achieve a 10-20% saving under ideal conditions.
SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeObservational study·DateOct 29, 2021
A large-scale study characterized 585 strains of the Xanthomonas perforans bacterium in Florida commercial tomato fields, finding associations between farms and transplant facilities as key points of pathogen spread. This research provides insights into the diversity of the pathogen population and potential control strategies for farmers.
SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2021
Researchers found that urban waste products applied to agricultural fields in France contained higher levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) than livestock manures. The study also detected a shift towards more persistent PFAS compounds over time, raising toxicity concerns.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateOct 20, 2021
A recent study has revealed that Fusarium wilt of cotton is more aggressive and diverse than previously understood, affecting Pima and Upland varieties. The researchers identified a population shift towards FOV4, a fourth race of the fungus, which has overcome some resistance in commercial Pima varieties.
SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPlant Disease·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2021
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.
Over an 80-year period, marketable ear mass in sweet corn hybrids grown at high densities increased by 2.85 tons per acre, while fresh kernel mass and recovery showed minimal changes. Modern hybrids were found to be more suitable for growth at high densities due to their compact plant architecture.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateOct 7, 2021
University of Illinois researchers discovered waterhemp's unique mechanism to detoxify the herbicide SA3, adding complexity to controlling this weed. This finding raises concerns about the potential for waterhemp to resist new herbicides before they are even commercialized.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalNew Phytologist·DateOct 5, 2021
Research suggests that concentrate farming allows for more natural habitats while meeting future food targets, resulting in better biodiversity outcomes compared to wildlife-friendly agriculture. This approach also sequesters more carbon and may benefit marine life.
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of Zoology·TypeLiterature review·DateOct 5, 2021
A new report by International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) suggests that accelerated adaptation can substantially reduce Egypt’s food production losses from climate change. Climate change-induced biophysical crop stress could lead to a 10% reduction in food crop yields by 2050, but investing in agricultural research and devel...
SourceInternational Food Policy Research Institute·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 30, 2021
A new study reviews sustainability standards for crop and livestock production, finding moderate positive effects on the environment through reduced agrichemical use. However, economic benefits vary by region and standard, and assessments are complicated. The study also raises concerns about labor practices and inequalities in the rura...
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalNature Food·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 23, 2021
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.
The Sustainable Agriculture Matrix provides a comprehensive assessment of agricultural sustainability at a national level, considering environmental, economic, and social impacts. The framework helps governments and organizations evaluate progress, identify priorities for improvement, and inform policies towards sustainable agriculture.
SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·JournalOne Earth·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 17, 2021
A new University of Illinois study integrates field data and advanced mathematical modeling to understand how cover crops affect soil water, nitrogen, and oxygen dynamics. The research finds that proper management of cover crops can balance their benefits with cash crop yields, while ignoring the impacts without optimization.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalField Crops Research·DateSep 16, 2021
A new study provides a comprehensive framework to evaluate the emissions of three major greenhouse gases from food production and consumption. The research found that animal-based foods emit 57% of global greenhouse gas emissions, while plant-based foods account for 29%, with CO2 being the most important emission factor.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Food·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 13, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.
Researchers have sequenced the shea tree's genome, providing a valuable resource for genetic improvement and breeding. The new tool will enable faster development of high-performing shea varieties, addressing the species' slow growth rate and high demand.
SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateSep 9, 2021
Researchers at UMD are developing CRISPR-Combo systems to improve genome editing and crop regeneration. The technology aims to reduce the time and cost of breeding new crop varieties with enhanced nutritional and agronomic traits.
Researchers from Göttingen and Hohenheim found hand pollination used worldwide for 20 crops, including apples and vanillas. The method can reduce losses and improve crop quality, but also brings challenges due to labor intensity and cost.
SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalBasic and Applied Ecology·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 8, 2021
The Agrobiodiversity Index reveals that globally, biodiversity and agrobiodiversity are in decline, with only a fraction of species contributing to crop production. Maintaining diversity is vital for achieving sustainable food systems.
SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalNature Food·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 7, 2021
A new study predicts that climate change will lead to longer dry spells in tropical regions, causing important global crops like coffee and cocoa to suffer. This could result from hotter temperatures, increased number of dry days, and longer dry spell lengths, particularly during the dry season.
SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalJournal of Hydrometeorology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 7, 2021
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.
A recent study has identified a nematode attractant in flax seeds, which can be used to develop sustainable and environmentally-friendly agriculture methods. The attractant, consisting of cell wall polysaccharides, is found to contain L-galactose sidechains that are critical for nematode attraction.
SourceKumamoto University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 3, 2021
A comprehensive review found that site-specific nutrient management (SSNM) increases yield by 12% and profitability by 15%, while saving 18 kg N/ha and reducing environmental risk. SSNM can detect and correct long-standing nutrient input inadequacies, improving outcomes.
SourceAfrican Plant Nutrition Institute·JournalGlobal Food Security·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 2, 2021
A recent study by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment suggests that bioenergy crops can be produced on economically marginal land. The research team estimated that 1.4-2.2 million hectares in the rainfed region are suitable for bioenergy crop production on such land.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 1, 2021
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.
Researchers from Tel Aviv and Berkeley Universities propose a model for seaweed farms to absorb nitrogen, reducing pollution in estuarine and marine environments. The study shows that these farms can produce a natural decontamination facility with significant ecological and economic value.
SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalCommunications Biology·DateAug 30, 2021
Researchers found that many collectors are planting seeds in forests to conserve wild populations, but also using commercially acquired seeds from online purchases, threatening the plant's gene pool. The study aims to better understand ginseng forest farming and promote conservation efforts in Pennsylvania.
Citrus canker has reappeared in Texas after a 70-year absence, threatening the state's $200M commercial citrus industry. Collaborative eradication efforts are underway between the USDA, Texas Department of Agriculture, and universities to prevent further spread.
SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPlant Health Progress·TypeSurvey·DateAug 16, 2021
A University of Delaware study found that diversifying nutritional strategies is key to improving diets for India's smallholder farmers. The researchers suggest individual-level and community-level approaches, such as growing diverse crops or sharing produce at local markets.
SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 5, 2021
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.
Research suggests climate change will increase disease pressure in some regions and reduce it in others. Model projections indicate that rising temperatures will boost yields in temperate areas while having little effect on tropical regions.
SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 5, 2021
A new study suggests that growing stinkweed as a crop could produce cleaner jet fuel with fewer environmental impacts than other biofuels. The study found that stinkweed requires less fertilizer and pesticides, resulting in lower carbon dioxide emissions and air pollution.
SourceOhio State University·JournalApplied Energy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 2, 2021
Researchers have identified five Bacillus strains with antibiotic ability against the deadly Fusiarium wilt TR4 fungus, which is threatening global banana production. The study found that these strains can trigger direct or indirect antagonism on the fungus, providing a new biocontrol method to combat TR4.
SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalJournal of Fungus·DateJul 30, 2021
Yiping Qi's team will test new delivery technologies for CRISPR-Cas12a to develop a pipeline for genome editing in carrots. They aim to create more nutritious and hypoallergenic carrot varieties with improved nutritional value and reduced allergenicity.
The institute will develop predictive digital twins of individual crop plants and entire farm fields, integrating real-time data from sensors to optimize crop growth. By leveraging expertise in plant sciences, engineering, and technology, AIIRA aims to accelerate agricultural productivity and sustainability.
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
Scientists create biofertilizer made from fast-growing freshwater cyanobacterium Tolypothrix, which can fix nitrogen without additional fertilization. The production process offers a cheap and renewable source of nitrogen-rich fertilizer for degraded soils.
SourceFlinders University·JournalChemosphere·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 29, 2021
A new study from the University of Illinois and The Ohio State University reveals that farmers care more about soil health than scientists and conservation professionals think. Farmers prioritize soil health at a higher level (8.5 out of 10) than academics and NRCS professionals expected (4.9 and 5.7, respectively).
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Soil and Water Conservation·TypeSurvey·DateJul 27, 2021
PlantwisePlus will test new interventions in 6-7 countries to reduce crop losses and empower farmers to increase incomes, food security, and food safety through sustainable approaches. The program aims to accelerate the availability of nature-positive plant protection products and create employment to support economic development.
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.
A team of researchers discovered a novel barley protein, HvMADS1, that regulates flower production in response to high temperatures. The study found that introducing a genetic modification to the protein can convert an unbranched spike into a branched structure with more flowers, potentially increasing grain production.
SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNature Plants·DateJun 29, 2021