Advanced Breeding/Genomics Archives - Land-Grant Impacts

Topic

Vegetables for sale at a farmers market stand.

Research and Extension ensure everyone has ample access to affordable, safe, nutritious food

Invasive pests damage crops, costing U.S. agriculture an estimated $30 billion every year. Pest management research and Extension stabilize the food supply chain. Researchers and Extension specialists in Oregon, developed cost-effective alternatives to glyphosate for herbicide-resistant Russian thistle control, protecting more than 30,000 acres of wheat and preventing over $1 million in yield losses so far.Oregon State University Extension Service. [...]

Food Security, Summary 1890, 2026, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Alabama, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Arizona, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, Auburn University, Central State University, Child and Family Resilience, Colorado, Colorado State University, Community Development/Engagement, Connecticut, Cornell University, Crop Management, Delaware, Economic Development, Emergency/Disaster Preparedness/Management/Recovery, Emerging Infectious Diseases, Extension, Fisheries/Aquaculture, Florida, Food Safety, Food Security, Food Systems, Forest Protection and Management, Georgia, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Invasive Species, Iowa, Iowa State University, Kansas, Kansas State University, Maryland, Massachusetts, Master Gardener/Master Naturalist, Michigan, Michigan State University, Minnesota, Mississippi, Mississippi State University, Montana, Montana State University, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New Mexico State University, New York, North Carolina, North Carolina State University, North Central, Northeast, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, Oregon, Oregon State University, Organic Agriculture, Pennsylvania, Pest Management, Profitability/Competitiveness, Public Health, Puerto Rico, Purdue University, Research, Rhode Island, Rural Communities/Health, Rutgers University, Soil Health, Southern, Specialty Crops, Texas, Texas A&M University, The Ohio State University, The Pennsylvania State University, The University of Georgia, University of Arizona, University of Arkansas, University of California, University of Connecticut, University of Delaware, University of Florida, University of Idaho, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Maryland, University of Massachusetts Amherst, University of Minnesota, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Nevada Reno, University of Puerto Rico, University of Rhode Island, Urban Agriculture, Virginia, Virginia Tech, Washington, Washington State University, West Virginia, West Virginia University, Western, Wildlife, Zoonotic Diseases/Avian Influenza

A river bisects a field and forested riparian area

Research and Extension support resilient ecosystems

Recent studies and programs are conserving and protecting water used for drinking, fishing, irrigation and recreation. Washington research helped establish 25 anaerobic digesters across the Pacific Northwest, turning dairy manure from more than 143,000 cows into biogas that provides more than 126 million kilowatt-hours of renewable energy per year. Digesters decrease water quality risks associated with nutrient runoff from manure [...]

Environmental Stewardship, Summary 1890, 2026, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Arkansas, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, California, Central State University, Colorado, Colorado State University, Community Development/Engagement, Connecticut, Crop Management, Economic Development, Ecosystem Services, Emergency/Disaster Preparedness/Management/Recovery, Emerging Infectious Diseases, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Extension, Facilities/Infrastructure, Fisheries/Aquaculture, Florida, Food Safety, Food Security, Food Systems, Forest Protection and Management, Georgia, Guam, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Illinois, Indiana, Invasive Species, Iowa, Iowa State University, Kansas, Kansas State University, Kentucky, Louisiana, Louisiana State University, Michigan, Michigan State University, Minnesota, Mississippi, Mississippi State University, Missouri, Montana, Montana State University, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New Mexico State University, North Carolina, North Carolina State University, North Central, North Dakota, North Dakota State University, Northeast, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, Oregon, Oregon State University, Pennsylvania, Pest Management, Profitability/Competitiveness, Public Health, Purdue University, Research, Rural Communities/Health, Soil Health, South Dakota, South Dakota State University, Southern, Specialty Crops, Tennessee, Tennessee State University, Texas, Texas A&M University, The Ohio State University, The Pennsylvania State University, The University of Georgia, University of Arkansas, University of California, University of Connecticut, University of Florida, University of Guam, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Kentucky, University of Minnesota, University of Missouri, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Nevada Reno, University of New Hampshire, University of Vermont, University of Wisconsin, Utah, Utah State University, Vermont, Washington, Washington State University, Waste Management, Water Resilience/Management, Western, Wildlife, Wisconsin, Workforce Development and Readiness, Zoonotic Diseases/Avian Influenza

Land-grant university research and Extension drive new biofuels, bioplastics, biochar and other bio-based products, strengthening rural economies, environmental health and energy security

Here are a few examples of that work: Partnering with a private company, scientists in Pennsylvania roduced and tested biomaterials to replace single-use, petroleum-based plastics. New composites made from cellulose and starch have improved stability and barrier properties and have been developed into compostable food packaging and handling products; adhesives and foams for packaging, wood composites and construction materials; and [...]

Agricultural Systems, Energy and Bioproducts 1890, 2026, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, Biofuels/Bioproducts, Economic Development, Ecosystem Services, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Extension, Fisheries/Aquaculture, Food Safety, Food Security, Food Systems, Georgia, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Illinois, Missouri, National Security, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Central, Northeast, Pennsylvania, Precision Agriculture, Research, Soil Health, South Dakota, South Dakota State University, Southern, The Pennsylvania State University, The University of Georgia, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Missouri, University of Nevada Reno, University of New Hampshire, Washington, Washington State University, Waste Management, Water Resilience/Management, West Virginia, West Virginia State University, Western, Wildlife

A drone flies over a field.

Research and Extension make agricultural systems more efficient, profitable, competitive and resilient

Strategies and tools for managing crop pests and diseases have increased productivity and profitability. For example: Extension units across the nation offer plant and pest diagnostic clinics. In New Mexico, free diagnoses saved producers an estimated $36,000 in testing fees in 2025, while also supporting biosecurity and export compliance. In Indiana, lab results and recommendations saved clients $890,000 in reduced [...]

Agricultural Systems, Summary 1890, 2026, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Alabama, Alaska, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Arizona, Arkansas, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, Auburn University, California, Clemson University, Community Development/Engagement, Connecticut, Crop Management, Economic Development, Emergency/Disaster Preparedness/Management/Recovery, Emerging Infectious Diseases, Extension, Fisheries/Aquaculture, Florida, Food Security, Food Systems, Georgia, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Iowa State University, Kansas, Kansas State University, Kentucky, Langston University, Lincoln University, Louisiana, Louisiana State University, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Michigan State University, Minnesota, Mississippi, Mississippi State University, Missouri, Montana, Montana State University, National Security, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New Mexico State University, North Carolina, North Carolina A&T State University, North Carolina State University, North Central, North Dakota, North Dakota State University, Northeast, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, Oregon, Oregon State University, Organic Agriculture, Pest Management, Precision Agriculture, Profitability/Competitiveness, Puerto Rico, Purdue University, Research, Rural Communities/Health, Soil Health, South Carolina, South Dakota, South Dakota State University, Southern, Specialty Crops, Tennessee, Texas, Texas A&M University, The University of Georgia, University of Alaska Fairbanks, University of Arizona, University of Arkansas, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, University of California, University of Connecticut, University of Florida, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Kentucky, University of Maine, University of Maryland, University of Minnesota, University of Missouri, University of Nevada Reno, University of New Hampshire, University of Puerto Rico, University of Tennessee, University of Vermont, Urban Agriculture, Vermont, Virginia, Virginia State University, Virginia Tech, Washington, Washington State University, Water Resilience/Management, Western, Wildlife, Workforce Development and Readiness, Zoonotic Diseases/Avian Influenza

High School Students pipetting as fellow high school students wait their turn during a workshop on using precision-cut lung slices to study lung biology

Expanding rural youth access to biomedical research careers

Rural students often have limited access to immersive STEM experiences that expose them to advanced scientific research and biomedical career pathways. Without early engagement and mentorship, many young people, particularly first-generation college students, lack awareness of academic opportunities in health science and regenerative medicine fields. This gap limits workforce pipeline development and participation in high-demand STEM careers. The University of [...]

Story, Youth, Family, and Communities 2026, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Extension, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Northeast, Public Health, Rural Communities/Health, Science/Technology/Engineering/Arts/Math (STEAM), University of Vermont, Vermont, Youth Development/4-H

a 4-H student operates a robot

Engaging students in STEM, robotics

Exposing youth to innovative technology builds digital literacy, problem-solving skills and career readiness, preparing the next generation to compete in a rapidly evolving, technology-driven workforce. Together, youth-focused technology education and land-grant leadership create a pipeline of skilled leaders who can drive economic growth and address complex local and global challenges. Here are a few examples of that work: South Dakota middle [...]

Summary, Youth, Family, and Communities 2026, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, Extension, Georgia, Louisiana, Louisiana State University, North Central, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, Precision Agriculture, Science/Technology/Engineering/Arts/Math (STEAM), South Dakota, South Dakota State University, Southern, The University of Georgia, Workforce Development and Readiness, Youth Development/4-H

Multiple glass containers with orange and red fruit liquids in them sit on a table.

Researchers look to science for healthier, better tasting food and drink

Working to create better tasting and more wholesome foods via science means not only healthier consumers, but also more markets for producers and value-added opportunities for entrepreneurs. At land-grant universities across the country, food scientists work to make sure agricultural commodities and value-added products have the best taste, texture, aroma and appearance possible, without compromising — and sometimes even [...]

Nutrition and Health, Summary 2026, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Arkansas, California, Child and Family Resilience, Food Safety, Food Security, Food Systems, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Missouri, North Central, Profitability/Competitiveness, Public Health, Research, Southern, University of Arkansas, University of California, University of Missouri, Western

scientists working in the lab

Research at land-grant universities looks to answer complicated disease questions

The basic and applied research that happens in labs at land-grant universities across the country helps to answer questions about the origins of devastating diseases such as ovarian cancer, early-onset Alzheimer’s, kidney fibrosis and Zika virus by diving into disease modeling, gene identification, cancer receptors and cell aging. This research works toward preventions, therapies and perhaps even cures. Here are [...]

Nutrition and Health, Summary 2026, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Emerging Infectious Diseases, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Illinois, Missouri, North Central, Public Health, Research, Southern, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Missouri, Utah, Utah State University, Virginia, Virginia Tech, Western, Zoonotic Diseases/Avian Influenza

researcher looking at orange corn on the stalk

Breeding corn with orange grain high in antioxidant carotenoids

Carotenoids are antioxidant compounds naturally found in plants, but humans cannot synthesize them and must obtain them through diet. In the U.S., there are widespread deficiencies in two key macular carotenoids — lutein and zeaxanthin — which accumulate in the retina and brain. Low levels of these nutrients are linked to poorer visual health, increased risk of age‑related macular [...]

Nutrition and Health, Story 2026, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Crop Management, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Indiana, North Central, Organic Agriculture, Purdue University, Research

peanuts

Wild peanut varieties source of disease resistance

Cultivated peanuts are plagued by diseases and pests, which make them expensive to grow as use of chemical controls account for more than 30% of the cost of production. Peanuts have little genetic variety, so there is a small pool of resistance genes to combat sickness in this plant. Wild peanut species, on the other hand, have strong resistances to [...]

Food Security, Story 2026, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Crop Management, Food Security, Food Systems, Georgia, Research, Southern, The University of Georgia

soybeans

Using genetics for crop disease resistance

Pests of major crops, including wheat, soybean, potatoes, tomatoes and wine grapes, cost American producers billions in yield losses each year and raise prices for consumers. Pathogens are steadily overcoming current genetic sources of resistance, making continuing efforts to identify and incorporate new genetics critical to reduce losses to farmers and protect markets and food security. Here are a few [...]

Food Security, Summary 2026, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Crop Management, Extension, Food Safety, Food Security, Food Systems, Idaho, Iowa, Iowa State University, Missouri, North Central, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, Pest Management, Profitability/Competitiveness, Research, Southern, Specialty Crops, The Ohio State University, University of Idaho, University of Missouri, University of Wisconsin, Western, Wisconsin

dairy cows in a barn

Supporting meat and dairy industries

Meat and dairy provide critical protein and a wide variety of other products for consumers and represent economically important industries across the country, not just for producers, but also for processors, groceries and restaurants. Research and Extension professionals at land-grant institutions support livestock and related industries in many ways through education on economically efficient production practices and research on [...]

Food Security, Summary 1890, 2026, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Arkansas, Extension, Food Safety, Food Security, Food Systems, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Illinois, Montana, Montana State University, North Central, Organic Agriculture, Pest Management, Profitability/Competitiveness, Puerto Rico, Research, Rural Communities/Health, Southern, University of Arkansas, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Puerto Rico, Western

sorghum varieties

Research and development of water-resilient sorghum expands rural economic opportunities in the West

In water-limited agricultural landscapes of the West, sustaining food crops for beef and dairy has become increasingly challenging. Traditional feed crops such as maize and alfalfa require large amounts of water, threatening herds and pushing researchers to explore more resilient alternatives. As a result, scientists with the Nevada Agricultural Experiment Station are combining genetic improvements and precision agriculture to improve [...]

Food Security, Story 2026, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Crop Management, Food Security, Food Systems, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Nevada, Research, University of Nevada Reno, Western

Making aquaculture more productive, safe and economical

The seafood industry is economically vital and provides an important source of protein for the world. Challenges to aquaculture include inefficient production methods, expensive feed inputs and food safety. Land-grant efforts are protecting and promoting this booming industry. Here are a few examples of that work: As feed is the most expensive cost of aquaculture, researchers in Alabama are developing feeds [...]

Food Security, Summary 1890, 2026, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Alabama, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Arkansas, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, Auburn University, College of Micronesia, Community Development/Engagement, Economic Development, Extension, Fisheries/Aquaculture, Food Safety, Food Security, Food Systems, Georgia, Maryland, Micronesia, Northeast, Profitability/Competitiveness, Public Health, Research, Rhode Island, Science/Technology/Engineering/Arts/Math (STEAM), Southern, The University of Georgia, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, University of Rhode Island, Western, Wildlife, Zoonotic Diseases/Avian Influenza

A researcher injects a tick embryo under the microscope.

International collaboration to attack the cattle fever tick

Building on previous success developing genetic tools to combat deer ticks, researchers in Nevada are partnering with those in Uruguay to genetically modify cattle tick genes. Cattle fever ticks were largely eradicated in the United States but sporadically show up in outbreaks tied to cross-border movement. Current control methods rely heavily on chemical pesticides, which can harm humans, pass into [...]

Food Security, Story 2026, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Emerging Infectious Diseases, Food Security, Nevada, Research, University of Nevada Reno, Western, Zoonotic Diseases/Avian Influenza

a vet giving a sheep a vaccine

Enhancing food safety with research and training

The United States food supply is among the safest in the world, but every day news stories report food recalls for a variety of safety reasons. Food safety must be maintained through every step of the production process, and land-grant institutions are the key to research and training that helps the food industry provide safe, healthy food. Here are a [...]

Food Security, Summary 1890, 2026, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Arkansas, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, Crop Management, Delaware, Extension, Food Safety, Food Security, Food Systems, Fort Valley State University, Georgia, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Missouri, Montana, Montana State University, North Central, Northeast, Profitability/Competitiveness, Public Health, Research, Rural Communities/Health, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, University of Delaware, University of Missouri, University of Vermont, Vermont, West Virginia, West Virginia State University, Western

grapes on the vine

Disease-resistant wine grape reduces losses in Florida

Pierce’s disease devastates grapevines in warm, humid regions like Florida, making wine grape production nearly impossible without costly interventions. This disease forces growers to rely on chemical treatments and limits the viability of vineyards in the Southeast. Plant breeders there successfully grew a new wine grape variety with genetic resistance to Pierce’s disease while maintaining desirable wine-making qualities. They used [...]

Food Security, Story 2026, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Florida, Food Systems, Profitability/Competitiveness, Research, Science/Technology/Engineering/Arts/Math (STEAM), Southern, Specialty Crops, University of Florida

cacti

Developing sustainable domestic biofuels

Land‑grant universities are developing sustainable bioproduct solutions that transform renewable biomass, including food and agricultural wastes, into valuable materials. These bioproducts strengthen national energy and food security, lower greenhouse gas emissions and support rural economies. They also create new markets, provide farmers with additional income opportunities and help to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Here are a few examples of [...]

Energy and Bioproducts, Summary 2026, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, Biofuels/Bioproducts, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Extension, Illinois, Missouri, Nevada, North Central, Precision Agriculture, Research, Science/Technology/Engineering/Arts/Math (STEAM), University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Missouri, University of Nevada Reno, Washington, Washington State University, Waste Management, Western

cattle in a field

Tech solutions for livestock management

Livestock producers face challenges such a shrinking labor force, limited veterinary access and rising costs. Artificial intelligence, precision agriculture technologies and genome sequencing have shown promise in improving livestock management, but up-front costs have generally restricted adoption to large-scale dairies. Small farms need economically feasible, effective tools tailored to their specific operations. Here are a few examples of that work: Researchers [...]

Agricultural Systems, Summary 1890, 2026, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Arkansas, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, Economic Development, Extension, Food Security, Illinois, Kentucky, Langston University, Maine, New Hampshire, North Central, Northeast, Oklahoma, Organic Agriculture, Precision Agriculture, Research, Southern, University of Arkansas, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Kentucky, University of Maine, University of New Hampshire, Water Resilience/Management

cornfield

Scientists unravel corn pest’s overwintering genes

Western and northern corn rootworms cost U.S. growers more than $1 billion each season. The larvae chew roots that anchor and feed corn plants, knocking down stalks and trimming grain weight. The beetles have become resistant to pesticide rotations and other control tactics, while the eggs they lay in soybean fields lie dormant until corn returns the following spring. At the [...]

Agricultural Systems, Story 2026, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Crop Management, Invasive Species, Kentucky, Pest Management, Research, Southern, University of Kentucky

A pair of hands in yellow gloves gently hold a strawberry plant, showing a flower and immature green strawberry, in a strawberry field.

Research helps increase specialty crop profitability

Specialty crop growers provide popular products to consumers. There are many challenges to growing the products commercially. Land-grant universities support growers with research and resources that help increase profitability and informed decision-making. Here are a few examples of that work: Apples are a popular product among consumers, but there are many challenges to growing them commercially in the Midwest and making [...]

Agricultural Systems, Summary 2026, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, California, Crop Management, Emerging Infectious Diseases, Extension, Food Systems, Iowa, Iowa State University, Maine, New Hampshire, North Central, Northeast, Organic Agriculture, Pest Management, Profitability/Competitiveness, Research, Specialty Crops, University of California, University of Maine, University of New Hampshire, Washington, Washington State University, Western

berries on the vine

New fruit, vegetable cultivars offer new opportunities for growers

Developing or restoring different fruit and vegetable cultivars allow farmers to plant crops based on disease resistance, fertilizer requirements, adaptations to site-specific soil and weather conditions or greater yields. Some cultivars can be a pathway to new market opportunities and new bio-based products. Here are a few examples of that work: Hemp is re-emerging as the basis of a viable industry [...]

Agricultural Systems, Summary 1890, 2026, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Alaska, Arkansas, Biofuels/Bioproducts, Central State University, Crop Management, Economic Development, Extension, Food Security, Food Systems, Georgia, Missouri, Montana, Montana State University, National Security, North Central, Ohio, Organic Agriculture, Precision Agriculture, Research, Soil Health, South Dakota, South Dakota State University, Southern, Specialty Crops, The University of Georgia, University of Alaska Fairbanks, University of Arkansas, University of Missouri, Urban Agriculture, Western

Scientists stand in a pasture with a bull in the foreground

Fine-tuning livestock production systems to overcome challenges

Livestock researchers are exploring new ways to achieve higher profitability through reproductive research, technology and traditional education outreach to help offset rising production costs. Here are a few examples of that work: In Louisiana, the Geaux Beef Heifer Development Program was created to support producers with expert-guided, forage-based heifer development. The program utilized artificial insemination or natural breeding combined with expert [...]

Agricultural Systems, Summary 2026, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, Facilities/Infrastructure, Louisiana, Louisiana State University, Mississippi, Mississippi State University, North Central, Precision Agriculture, Profitability/Competitiveness, Research, South Dakota, South Dakota State University, Southern

women holding a hen

Creating healthier, higher-yielding eggs

Researchers at North Carolina State University have found several ways to increase egg production, ensuring a steady inventory hits the grocery supply chain. With more eggs coming from cage-free housing, as much as 40% in 2024, commercial egg producers have heightened interest in understanding which hens are most adaptive to this environment. In cage-free housing, thousands of hens can fly freely [...]

Agricultural Systems, Story 2026, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Food Security, North Carolina, North Carolina State University, Research, Southern

Tahirah Johnson examines testing samples under a magnifying glass in a research lab on the University of Maryland Campus in 2024.

Innovative methods for safer, healthier food production practices

Regional food production is critical to local economies and supporting American food systems. Rising reports of foodborne illnesses, increased antibiotic resistance and newer production systems like soilless agriculture necessitate a better understanding of the risks and options to improve the safety and health value of food products from produce to shellfish and tree nuts. 1890 land-grant universities are examining [...]

Food Security, Summary 1890, 2026, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Arkansas, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, Central State University, Fisheries/Aquaculture, Food Safety, Food Security, Food Systems, Fort Valley State University, Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina, North Carolina A&T State University, Ohio, Organic Agriculture, Pest Management, Profitability/Competitiveness, Research, Science/Technology/Engineering/Arts/Math (STEAM), Specialty Crops, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Urban Agriculture, West Virginia, West Virginia State University, Zoonotic Diseases/Avian Influenza