Food & Agriculture

WSU researchers have discovered the way plants respond to disease-causing organisms and how they protect themselves.

The donation will allow WSU and USDA scientists to enhance and update WSU Tree Fruit Research and Extension’s postharvest research facilities and equipment.

“Robots and software, sensors and wireless communication are changing the way we grow our food, and offer exciting new ways to solve challenges in sustainability and production.” — Manoj Karkee

As the top recipient of USDA research and development funding, WSU is likely to see increased support for crucial programs.

Alfalfa is one of the most widely cultivated hay crops in the world, with about 55 million tons grown annually in the United States.

Orville Vogel, who died in 1991, spent years building an endowment at WSU for wheat research, which continues to helps scientists launch pioneering research.

Carolina Torres, a horticulturist and WSU alumna, has been named the university’s first Endowed Chair in Tree Fruit Postharvest Systems.

Khot and his team also will look at new organic products like plant extracts and highly refined petroleum oils.

U.S. agriculture uses about a billion pounds of plastic annually, and much of that material ends up in landfills, rivers, oceans and even our food and beverages.

Millions of tons of cotton and cellulose waste may be kept out of landfills by spinning it into valuable fibers for new clothing.

David Brown, associate professor in the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, is the new director of AgWeatherNet, Washington’s agricultural weather network.

“People come here hungry for knowledge,” said Brisbane. “I help feed them.”

The research fellowships will promote agricultural productivity, food security and economic growth through international collaboration.

Eight WSU Extension faculty members and their teams were honored for their community support by the National Extension Association for Family and Consumer Sciences.

Compost helps organic farms grow food more economically and sustainably.

Food industry professionals can learn about the latest risks and defenses for foodborne illness at the 38th Annual Food Safety and Sanitation Workshop.