By Blake Jackson
Two agriculture professors from Missouri State University have secured substantial grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), totaling nearly $600,000. Dr. Benjamin Onyango received $299,975 for his study on introducing goat meat into the American diet, while Dr. Chin-Feng Hwang received $299,879 for his grape breeding research. These grants are an acknowledgment of their dedication to advancing agricultural research.
Dr. Onyango's project is focused on studying the feasibility and challenges of incorporating goat meat into the American diet. Over a three-year span, he plans to investigate how people perceive and accept goat meat while exploring factors that may deter stores from selling it. Ultimately, his goal is to promote goat meat's nutritional benefits and enhance its appeal to the American public.
Dr. Hwang's research will span three years and will primarily revolve around identifying factors that protect grape dormant buds from winter freeze damage. Winter freeze damage can lead to crop loss and economic hardship for vineyards. Hwang aims to accelerate the traditional breeding process by identifying DNA markers linked to valuable traits, thereby speeding up breeding cycles and benefiting the grape industry as a whole.
These grants are part of NIFA's investment of over $7 million in 22 projects designed to support nonland-grant colleges of agriculture. The primary objectives are to strengthen institutions' infrastructure for agricultural research, teaching, and outreach, enhance faculty engagement in agricultural professional development, and increase the number, quality, and diversity of qualified graduates entering the food and agricultural workforce.
Missouri State University, a public comprehensive university system with a mission in public affairs, places a strong emphasis on developing well-rounded individuals with a focus on ethical leadership, cultural competence, and community engagement. The William H. Darr College of Agriculture within the university integrates excellence in teaching, service, and research across multiple undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs. The college comprises two schools housing various academic programs, each with unique research facilities for both basic and hands-on research.
This investment in agricultural research will contribute to the broader goals of enhancing agricultural practices, promoting food security, and addressing the challenges faced by the farming and agricultural industry in the United States. By supporting research in diverse areas such as goat meat integration and grape breeding, these grants aim to expand opportunities for innovation and sustainable practices in agriculture.
Photo Credit: USDA
Categories: Missouri, Government & Policy