Minnesota Agricultural Experiment Station (MAES) - Comprehensive Report

Overview

The Minnesota Agricultural Experiment Station (MAES), established in 1885, is a prominent research program operating under the University of Minnesota. It serves as a vital resource for scientific exploration in agriculture, forestry, and environmental issues across Minnesota. MAES is supported by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (USDA-NIFA) and collaborates extensively with the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS) to address challenges encountered by corn, soybean, small grains, poultry, swine, dairy, and forestry sectors.

Key Personnel

• Brian Buhr

• Title: Dean of CFANS; Director of MAES

• Email: bbuhr@umn.edu

• Background: Dr. Buhr is a distinguished academic with a Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics and a B.S. in Animal Science from Iowa State University. Since July 2014, he has been leading CFANS and MAES operations while being recognized with awards such as the Outstanding Policy Contribution Award from the American Agricultural Economics Association and the CFANS Distinguished Faculty Award.

• Emily Evans

• Position: Research Program Manager at MAES

• Responsibility: Emily Evans is responsible for managing project reporting and overseeing program operations. With two decades of experience in organic agriculture research within the University system, she manages both on-station and on-farm research projects.

Research Initiatives and Facilities

MAES serves as a central entity orchestrating research collaborations across university campuses, impacting communities throughout the state. Key contributions and facilities include:

• Comprehensive Analytical Services: Located in the Crops Research Building on the St. Paul campus, the University of Minnesota's Research Analytical Laboratory provides essential analysis of soil, plant, and water samples.

• Research Funding: Supported by USDA-NIFA funds, MAES focuses on indispensable agricultural issues, such as the recent allocation of $1.4 million to enhance crop yields.

Recent Research Highlights

• Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Response: MAES has allocated $135,000 towards projects aimed at understanding and mitigating the effects of HPAI on livestock, collaborating closely with the College of Veterinary Medicine and Extension specialists.

• Triumph® Apple Development: Known for its scab tolerance, the Triumph® apple aligns with sustainable practices, offering producers a low-maintenance and eco-friendly crop choice.

Strategic Directions

MAES focuses on integrating its research initiatives with the combined expertise of the University of Minnesota's faculty. Its Research and Outreach Centers play an instrumental role in fostering agricultural advancements through practical applications in farming and resource management.

• Capacity Funds: The experimentation station is supported by federal capacity funds, aimed at improving food security and agricultural resilience in Minnesota.

• Infrastructure and Facilities: With advanced facilities such as the Warthesen Food Processing Center, Leatherdale Equine Center, and the Meat Science Laboratory, MAES enhances its research capabilities to meet the diverse needs of Minnesota's agricultural climate.

Competitor Profiling

MAES is positioned within a competitive landscape of state agricultural experiment stations, including esteemed institutions like Cornell University, UC Davis, and Utah State University. These institutions are known for their significant contributions to agricultural sciences, secured through substantial federal and state-funded research projects.

To stand out, MAES focuses on optimizing food production efficiency and sustainable agricultural practices. By leveraging partnerships, accessing cutting-edge technologies, and securing funding, MAES aspires to uphold its leadership in agricultural research and innovation.