By Blake Jackson
Lincoln University of Missouri welcomed community members to its fourth annual Carver Field Day on June 9 at the George Washington Carver Farm, where visitors explored agricultural research, production practices, and Cooperative Extension programs through guided tours and interactive demonstrations.
The event began with opening remarks from LU President John Moseley, who reflected on his agricultural background and the importance of research partnerships.
"As a boy, I grew up on a farm, so I have a sincere appreciation of what they do here," Moseley said. He also emphasized the collaboration between Lincoln University and the University of Missouri in supporting producers, industries, and communities across the state.
Visitors traveled by trolley to various research stations throughout the farm. At the greenhouse complex, greenhouse manager Michael Tarka highlighted the advanced technology used to support research projects, including movable benches and automated irrigation systems.
"I've spent my life in greenhouses, and I can tell you this would qualify as a very technologically advanced greenhouse," Tarka said. "Number one, it has cement floors with a center drain."
Researchers also discussed ongoing studies involving brown and white cowpea varieties, focusing on improving disease resistance in crops intended for both livestock feed and human consumption.
The poultry research area featured presentations by Extension poultry specialist Tatijana Fisher and graduate student Dylan Knipker. "If you don't learn anything else today, remember to buy your chickens in the fall," Knipker said while explaining seasonal egg production.
Fisher described an efficient coop design, noting, "There is zero waste on the overall design. It is 25 feet around, why? Because that's how long a roll of the hardware flap is."
Additional displays highlighted hemp, hydroponics, grazing systems, aquaculture, plant pathology, native plants, and virtual fencing.
Visitor Richard Allen praised the aquaculture exhibit, saying, "I like to learn about how they're raising the fish and experimenting with different kinds of food to see how they grow. It was cool to see how the setup worked and how they manage it."
Photo Credit: lincoln-university-missouri
Categories: Missouri, Education, General