UC Davis researchers are developing improved lima bean varieties suited for U.S. climates. By studying wild genetics and breeding for heat tolerance, yield, and nutrition, they aim to expand lima bean cultivation and consumer appeal nationwide.
California farmers spend over $900M annually on weed control. At UC Davis Weed Day 2024, researchers shared updates on herbicide drift, native plants for weed control, irrigation impacts, and new weed-zapping technology for organic orchards.
Doctoral student Gen Ha Park was named a George Washington Carver scholar for his work developing heat- and drought-tolerant chile peppers using genomic tools. His research aims to support sustainable farming in a warming climate.
Whitney Brim-DeForest, UCCE rice and wild rice advisor, used her GSR award to research weed management in rice. Her graduate training built strong grower ties and skills now guiding her work in California’s top rice-growing region.
Grace Woodmansee used her GSR award to strengthen her research and outreach skills, preparing her for a career as a UCCE advisor. Her drought-focused work with ranchers now helps support resilient rangeland management in California.
Grant Johnson’s GSR award helped launch his UC Cooperative Extension career in urban ag tech. It supported his research on nursery runoff and gave him skills he now uses to improve irrigation, fertilization, and water reuse.
Doctoral student Valentina Roel is testing compost-based fertilizers from food and yard waste as eco-friendly nitrogen alternatives. Early results show similar crop yields to synthetic fertilizers, offering climate and soil benefits.
UC Davis scientists received $2.1M in USDA grants to breed green beans, chile peppers, and alfalfa better suited for heat and drought. The goal: improve quality, boost yield, cut costs, and adapt crops to climate change.
UC Davis scientist Eduardo Blumwald partnered with Science Journal for Kids and Teens to adapt his rice-bacteria research for high school classrooms, helping boost science literacy. His paper is now reaching students and teachers nationwide.
Louise Ferguson led ASHS Leadership Academy fellows to Washington, D.C., to advocate for $1.3B in farm bill research funding. Fellows met with lawmakers to highlight the economic and health impacts of horticultural research.
