New projects head to research farm
By Anne Marie Kyzer Staff Writer

Burke County will soon reclaim its role as a hub for agricultural research.

The revival of the research farm near Midville means that farmers can expect to see a surge in studies based there.

More extensive and diverse experiments will likely begin at the farm in 2008, according to Dr. Bob Shulstad, interim associate dean for research at the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES).

"Beginning in 2008, we hope to expand our traditional agronomic, entomology and plant pathology studies as well as add new studies specific to growing crops for use in biofuel," Dr. Shulstad said, as plans for the Southeast Georgia Research and Education Center begin to take shape.

In addition, U.S. Congressman John Barrow has penned a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture secretary Mike Johanns encouraging more federally-funded projects at the site. Congressman Barrow asked for the USDA's help in finding "expanded, reinvigorated and directed research projects to be based there."

Currently, the CAES is moving forward with plans to sell about one-third of the farm's acreage to fund the revitalization of the remaining facilities and land, according to Dr. Shulstad.

CAES Dean and Director Dr. Scott Angle said he expects the farm to be "fully open for use for the planting season of 2008."

At a public meeting two weeks ago, Dean Angle also mentioned that three fulltime employees would be based on site.

In the meantime, researchers from other sites will continue to conduct some of their experiments there.

Most of those projects focus on state wide variety tests, preliminary evaluations of cotton and peanut varieties, insect control on corn, nematode research and stinkbug control.

These types of projects will likely continue, Dr. Shulstad said.

As college officials continue to develop the center's research agenda, Burke County Extension Coordinator Will Duffie encourages local farmers to get involved.

He said letting the college know what their specific needs are will make the center an even more valuable asset to area farmers.