University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Archives - Land-Grant Impacts

Institution

young child walking in strawberry patch

Land-grant university research and Extension support resilience for youths, families and communities nationwide

Here are a few examples of that work: The effectiveness of the Department of Defense’s Military Family Readiness System depends on well-trained Extension professionals with research-based tools and resources. Extension specialists in Kentucky contributed by providing personal finance training to military service providers so they can pass on knowledge, tools and resources that help military families prevent and navigate financial [...]

Summary, Youth, Family, and Communities 1890, 2026, Alabama, Alabama A&M University, Arkansas, Central State University, Child and Family Resilience, Colorado, Colorado State University, Community Development/Engagement, Cornell University, Economic Development, Ecosystem Services, Emergency/Disaster Preparedness/Management/Recovery, Extension, Food Security, Food Systems, Georgia, Hawaiʻi, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Louisiana State University, Maine, Michigan, Michigan State University, Missouri, Montana, Montana State University, New York, North Carolina, North Carolina A&T State University, North Central, Northeast, Ohio, Public Health, Purdue University, Research, Rural Communities/Health, Science/Technology/Engineering/Arts/Math (STEAM), South Dakota, South Dakota State University, Southern, Texas, Texas A&M University, The University of Georgia, University of Arkansas, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, University of Hawaiʻi, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Kentucky, University of Maine, University of Missouri, Urban Agriculture, Utah, Utah State University, Virginia, Virginia Tech, Washington, Washington State University, Waste Management, Water Resilience/Management, West Virginia, West Virginia University, Western, Workforce Development and Readiness, Youth Development/4-H

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

a group of smiling college students

Immersive study abroad builds language skills and global readiness in Arkansas

University students must develop foreign language fluency and cross-cultural competence to remain competitive in today’s global workforce. Traditional classroom instruction often limits opportunities for real-world language practice and cultural immersion, creating gaps in applied communication skills. University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, through its Office of International Programs and Studies and the Department of English, Humanities and Foreign Languages, launched [...]

Story, Youth, Family, and Communities 1890, 2026, Arkansas, Community Development/Engagement, Economic Development, Extension, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Profitability/Competitiveness, Rural Communities/Health, Science/Technology/Engineering/Arts/Math (STEAM), University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Youth Development/4-H

an Extension agent shows youths plants from a community garden

Encouraging health and wellness in U.S. youth through hands-on activities, education

One in five school-aged children nationally suffer from obesity, and regular physical activity and balanced diets can lead to improved focus, behavior, self-esteem and academic performance. Encouraging healthy behaviors at an early age fosters a value for physical activity, healthy eating and preventive habits. These healthy behaviors can lead to fewer chronic diseases, resulting in lower health care costs and a [...]

Nutrition and Health, Summary 1890, 2026, Arkansas, Child and Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Economic Development, Extension, Food Safety, Food Security, Food Systems, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Idaho, North Carolina, North Carolina A&T State University, Public Health, Rural Communities/Health, Science/Technology/Engineering/Arts/Math (STEAM), Southern, Texas, Texas A&M University, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, University of Idaho, Urban Agriculture, Western, Youth Development/4-H

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

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 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

two UAPB athletes speaking at a meeting

Land-grant universities educate individuals and communities about health, nutrition and chronic disease prevention

Many American individuals and communities struggle with building or maintaining healthy lifestyles that contribute to better health outcomes. A lack of awareness of health information and resource constraints limit people’s abilities to eat healthy foods or get enough physical activity. Extension leaders from 1890 land-grant universities are bringing information to communities struggling with high rates of obesity and chronic [...]

Nutrition and Health, Summary 1890, 2026, Alabama, Alabama A&M University, Arkansas, Central State University, Child and Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Emergency/Disaster Preparedness/Management/Recovery, Extension, Food Safety, Food Security, Food Systems, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, North Carolina, North Carolina A&T State University, Ohio, Prairie View A&M University, Public Health, Rural Communities/Health, Tennessee, Tennessee State University, Texas, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, West Virginia, West Virginia State University, Youth Development/4-H

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

Fort Valley State University scientist harvesting a ripe peach on the campus research plot.

Addressing food insecurity to drive community impact

Food security is fundamental to the health, resilience and economic vitality of rural and urban communities. Across the United States,1890 Land‑grant Universities are uniquely positioned to meet this critical need by advancing research, education and Extension programs that connect communities to practical solutions and sustainable food system innovations. Here are a few examples of that work: When food insecurity hits, older [...]

Food Security, Summary 1890, 2026, Arkansas, Central State University, Child and Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Economic Development, Extension, Fisheries/Aquaculture, Food Security, Food Systems, Fort Valley State University, Georgia, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Ohio, Organic Agriculture, Public Health, Research, Rural Communities/Health, Science/Technology/Engineering/Arts/Math (STEAM), University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Urban Agriculture, Youth Development/4-H

preschoolers look at plants in a raised bed

Strengthening youth development through experiential learning

Experiential learning equips young people with hands-on skills, critical thinking abilities and real-world problem-solving experiences that strengthen academic success, workforce readiness and lifelong learning. Through community-based programs, 1890 land-grant universities play a vital role in ensuing opportunities by connecting research, Extension, and education to support youth and prepare the next generation of leaders. Here are a few examples of that [...]

Summary, Youth, Family, and Communities 1890, 2026, Alabama, Alabama A&M University, Arkansas, Central State University, Child and Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Extension, Food Safety, Food Security, Food Systems, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Maryland, Ohio, Organic Agriculture, Science/Technology/Engineering/Arts/Math (STEAM), Tennessee, Tennessee State University, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Urban Agriculture, West Virginia, West Virginia State University, Youth Development/4-H

a group of smiling students

Advancing higher education and career readiness

Sectors across the agricultural landscape need more educated and skilled workers to support our national and local food systems. 1890 land-grant universities offer different pathways to introduce students to career opportunities and prepare them for employment. Here are a few examples of that work: In Tennessee, Extension leaders brought a cohort of undergraduate students to the Farm Credit Mid-America headquarters to [...]

Summary, Youth, Family, and Communities 1890, 2026, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Arkansas, Economic Development, Extension, Food Security, Food Systems, Fort Valley State University, Georgia, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Kentucky, Kentucky State University, Prairie View A&M University, Tennessee, Tennessee State University, Texas, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Workforce Development and Readiness, Youth Development/4-H

view of tree canopy from below

Private land stewardship protects environment and communities

Practicing good stewardship of private lands is important for the health of our ecosystems and communities. Researchers, Extension professionals and educators at land-grant universities across the United States provide training, tools and other resources to help private landowners manage their land in ways that are environmentally friendly and economically sustainable. Here are a few examples of that work: Extension professionals in [...]

Environmental Stewardship, Summary 1890, 2025, Arkansas, Community Development/Engagement, Delaware, Economic Development, Ecosystem Services, Extension, Food Security, Forest Protection and Management, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, Michigan State University, Mississippi, Mississippi State University, North Central, Northeast, Profitability/Competitiveness, Purdue University, Research, Soil Health, Southern, Texas, Texas A&M University, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, University of Delaware, University of Maryland, University of Wyoming, Water Resilience/Management, Western, Wyoming, Youth Development/4-H

scientists in a lab

Harnessing artificial intelligence for agricultural innovation

Land-grant universities are leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to improve agricultural efficiency, productivity and sustainability. Here are a few examples of that work: In Georgia, researchers are developing an AI-powered app to help farmers accurately identify Sericea lespedeza, a valuable forage crop with natural anthelmintic properties, reducing time ad labor costs.Fort Valley State University; USDA Capacity-Research. See full statement. In Arkansas, researchers are [...]

Agricultural Systems, Summary 1890, 2025, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Arkansas, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, Central State University, Fisheries/Aquaculture, Fort Valley State University, Georgia, Ohio, Precision Agriculture, Research, Rural Communities/Health, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

pigweed

Research and outreach on invasive species keep agriculture productive, profitable

Land-grant university research and outreach is helping manage the impacts invasive weeds and species have on growers and agricultural productivity. Here are a few examples of that work: When invasive pigweed threatened Idaho agriculture, Extension educators educated stakeholders on identification and best management practices. Educational materials have been widely shared, including more than 50 presentations to more than 4,000 direct contacts [...]

Agricultural Systems, Summary 1890, 2025, Alaska, Arkansas, Crop Management, Extension, Food Security, Idaho, Invasive Species, Mississippi, Mississippi State University, Pest Management, Profitability/Competitiveness, Research, Southern, University of Alaska Fairbanks, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, University of Idaho, Western

sheep

Advancing food security through sustainable livestock and crop innovations

Research at 1890 land-grant universities addresses critical challenges in animal and plant production. Collectively, these projects support sustainable food systems and food security by improving livestock and crop health, reducing reliance on agrochemicals and increasing production efficiency. Here are a few examples of that work: An Arkansas study on sheep health explored natural dietary supplements to reduce antibiotic and dewormer dependency, [...]

Food Security, Summary 1890, 2025, Arkansas, Central State University, Extension, Food Safety, Food Security, Food Systems, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, North Carolina, North Carolina A&T State University, Ohio, Prairie View A&M University, Precision Agriculture, Research, Rural Communities/Health, Soil Health, Texas, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Urban Agriculture

students work on a plant-based science experiment

Recruiting the next generation of students to STEM careers

As the population grows, the demand for innovative, science-driven solutions in food production and resource management increases. Agricultural STEM careers will play a vital role in boosting global food security and economic development while sustaining natural resources. The 1890 land-grant universities are key in bridging the gap between high school students and these STEM careers. Here are a few examples [...]

Summary, Youth, Family, and Communities 1890, 2025, Alabama, Alabama A&M University, Arkansas, Community Development/Engagement, Economic Development, Extension, Fisheries/Aquaculture, North Carolina, North Carolina A&T State University, Science/Technology/Engineering/Arts/Math (STEAM), Tennessee, Tennessee State University, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Workforce Development and Readiness, Youth Development/4-H

two people reference a tablet in an outdoor setting

Involving youths in agriculture

A growing need to produce a qualified workforce to solve issues in agriculture such as changing environmental conditions means involving more youths. Youths have a strong potential to grow into leaders who can address these issues. The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) is establishing educational centers related to regenerative agriculture and aquaculture on campus and at the UAPB [...]

Environmental Stewardship, Story 1890, 2025, Arkansas, Extension, Fisheries/Aquaculture, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Youth Development/4-H

two scientists take a sample

Land-grant universities drive sustainability through innovative agricultural practices

The 1890 land-grant universities are dedicated to improving the well-being of economically challenged communities. By focusing on sustainable practices, these institutions help address key challenges like food security, environmental stewardship and economic resilience. Through research, Extension and education, they equip farmers and communities with innovative techniques that preserve resources for future generations. Here are a few examples of that work: Researchers [...]

Agricultural Systems, Summary 1890, 2025, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Alabama, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Arkansas, Central State University, Crop Management, Extension, Food Security, Food Systems, Fort Valley State University, Georgia, Langston University, Maryland, North Carolina, North Carolina A&T State University, Ohio, Oklahoma, Prairie View A&M University, Profitability/Competitiveness, Research, Rural Communities/Health, Soil Health, Specialty Crops, Tennessee, Tennessee State University, Texas, Tuskegee University, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Urban Agriculture, Water Resilience/Management, West Virginia, West Virginia State University, Workforce Development and Readiness

a scientist in a university laboratory

Developing the next generation of agricultural workers

A skilled workforce is critical to sustaining agriculture, advancing food security and fostering economic growth. Land-grant universities are preparing students for the agricultural workforce through hands-on training, research opportunities and industry partnerships. These programs focus on historically underserved communities, ensuring broad participation in food and agriculture careers. Here are a few examples of that work: Georgia Extension professionals are helping students [...]

Summary, Youth, Family, and Communities 1890, 2025, Arkansas, Central State University, Extension, Fisheries/Aquaculture, Food Security, Food Systems, Fort Valley State University, Georgia, Ohio, Research, Rural Communities/Health, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Workforce Development and Readiness, Youth Development/4-H

young woman examines a plant in her garden

Historically Black land-grant universities reach diverse communities

In 1890, the Land-grant University System was expanded to include institutions for Black citizens. Today, these institutions continue to provide access to higher education for underserved communities, and their research and Extension programs impact people worldwide through advancements in agricultural productivity and sustainability, food security, human health, and community and youth development. Here are a few examples of that work: First-time [...]

Summary, Youth, Family, and Communities 1890, 2024, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Alabama, Alabama A&M University, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Arkansas, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, Broadband Access/Digital Literacy, Child and Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Crop Management, Economic Development, Extension, Fort Valley State University, Georgia, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Prairie View A&M University, Research, Texas, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Youth Development/4-H

grandfather and grandchildren watering a garden

Arkansas grandparents grow relationship with grandchildren through gardening

An increasing number of grandparents are raising their grandchildren. University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff’s Cooperative Extension Program is developing ways to support them and provide necessary resources. One way is by helping grandparents to grow their own food. The university’s School of Agriculture, Fisheries and Human Sciences partnered with the Jefferson County Cooperative Extension Service and the Pine Bluff [...]

Story, Youth, Family, and Communities 1890, 2024, Arkansas, Child and Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Extension, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Aerial view of a field mapped out with drone technology

Emerging technologies aid conservation and management

Climate change and biodiversity losses pose extraordinary challenges for the sustainability of natural ecosystems and the species that inhabit them. Land-grant universities are developing and applying emerging technologies that can help to more efficiently, accurately and safely monitor, measure, and precisely manage these systems with minimal environmental impact. Here are a few examples of that work: In New Hampshire, researchers found [...]

Environmental Stewardship, Summary 1890, 2024, Arkansas, Connecticut, Ecosystem Services, Extension, Florida, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New Mexico State University, Northeast, Pennsylvania, Profitability/Competitiveness, Research, Southern, Tennessee, Tennessee State University, The Pennsylvania State University, University of Arkansas, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, University of Connecticut, University of Florida, University of New Hampshire, Washington, Washington State University, Western

crops growing in a field

Creating new, sustainable products from agricultural waste and biomass

Petroleum and other nonrenewable materials are commonly used for plastics, industrial chemicals, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and other products we use on a daily basis. But many of these products can be made from biomass, including food and agricultural wastes. Bioproducts offer a way to improve energy security, food security and national security while also cutting back on fossil fuel-related pollution [...]

Energy and Bioproducts, Summary 1890, 2024, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Alabama, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Arkansas, Auburn University, Biofuels/Bioproducts, California, Clemson University, Fisheries/Aquaculture, Forest Protection and Management, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, Michigan State University, Minnesota, North Central, Northeast, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Research, Soil Health, South Carolina, South Dakota, South Dakota State University, Southern, Texas, Texas A&M University, The Ohio State University, The Pennsylvania State University, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, University of California, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Kentucky, University of Minnesota, University of Wisconsin, Virginia, Virginia Tech, Washington, Washington State University, Waste Management, Western, Wisconsin

sweet potatoes in a bucket

Sweet potato seed program provides Arkansas farmers with high-quality seed stock

Sweet potatoes are propagated by stem cuttings, which makes the crop more susceptible to virus accumulation over time. More than 30 viruses are known to affect sweet potatoes. The use of virus-infected sweet potato slips for subsequent seasons can have a profoundly negative effect on a farmer’s operation, decreasing yield potential and profitability. The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff’s [...]

Agricultural Systems, Story 1890, 2024, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Arkansas, Crop Management, Extension, Profitability/Competitiveness, Specialty Crops, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff