VOLUME 2024, ISSUE #4 04/05/2024 |
A MESSAGE FROM OUR DEAN Dear Aggies and friends of the College of ACES, We continue with the semester, and unfortunately with this issue we must mention the passing of Calvin “Herb” Ward, who was an alumnus of the college and a very distinguished academic leader at Rice University. Dr. Ward established The Dr. Calvin "Herb" and Barbara Ward Endowed Interdisciplinary Chair in Environmental and Water Sciences in the College of ACES. Our college is proud to be home to the third individual serving in this endowed chair. The fact that Dr. Ward considered our college for this endowed chair means a lot, given the academic caliber of his life experiences and his career at Rice University. Endowed chairs are extremely important to retain faculty and to advance research and teaching and outreach in a university like NMSU. We sincerely appreciate this, and we treasure the example that he gave before passing away. We are also very saddened by the passing of one of our stellar department heads, Dr. Matthew Gompper. Dr. Gompper passed away on March 25, 2024, from complications while at the hospital. We will put details of his life and accomplishments in the next issue. We really appreciate the support and collaboration that have been taking place within our larger college community. By the time you read this newsletter, we will be on the verge of our ACES Open House, which will be taking place on Saturday April 6, 2024. Please stop by and visit us. As always, we encourage you to share your experiences and let us know how we can improve these activities. We want to also take the opportunity to feature the water research recently published by Dr. Claudia Trueblood. It is a very important benchmark in the study of water management and usage in New Mexico. Dr. Trueblood has been associated with the College of ACES in several positions, most recently as Director of IRD. After completing her PhD and her research she moved to the New Mexico Environment Department. We appreciate her contributions to the body of science and wish her the best in her career. Thank you very much for your support, and GO AGGIES! |
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Rolando A. Flores Galarza Dean & Chief Administrative Officer |
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| It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dr. H. Calvin Ward, a distinguished figure in the realms of academia, environmental science, and engineering. Dr. Ward's legacy extends far beyond his professional achievements; he leaves behind a profound impact on education, research, and family. The establishment of the Dr. Calvin "Herb" and Barbara Ward Endowed Interdisciplinary Chair in Environmental and Water Sciences stands as a testament to Dr. Ward's enduring commitment to education. This endowed chair, founded by Dr. Herb and Barbara Ward, pays homage to his formative years at New Mexico State University (NMSU), where he laid the foundation for a remarkable career. His time at NMSU not only shaped his academic prowess but also instilled in him the drive to pursue goals that seemed beyond reach. |
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Venturing forth from NMSU, Dr. Ward continued to ascend the ranks of academia, culminating in a distinguished tenure at Rice University. As Chair of the Department of Environmental Science and Engineering for over two decades, Dr. Ward's leadership was instrumental in shaping the trajectory of the department. His contributions as an emerita faculty Professor of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology and Director of the Energy and Environmental Systems Institute further underscore his dedication to advancing knowledge in his field. Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Ward amassed academic honors, indicative of his unwavering pursuit of excellence. His expertise in the biodegradation of industrial waste garnered him widespread recognition, solidifying his status as a leading authority in environmental science and engineering. With a prolific publication record spanning numerous books and professional articles, Dr. Ward leaves behind a rich tapestry of knowledge that continues to inspire future generations. Beyond his professional endeavors, Dr. Ward was a devoted family man, cherishing the time spent with his wife, Barbara, and their three children. Their shared moments of joy and tranquility at their homes in Houston and Arkansas, where they reveled in the company of their grandchildren, epitomized the depth of Dr. Ward's love and commitment to his family. As we mourn the loss of Dr. H. Calvin Ward, we also celebrate his remarkable life and enduring contributions to academia, environmental science, and beyond. His indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. |
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2024 NATIONAL BQA EDUCATOR AWARD |
NMSU's Dr. Wenzel Recognized as National BQA Educator ORLANDO, Fla. (Feb. 1, 2024) – The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, announced the winners of the 2024 Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) Awards, sponsored by Cargill. The National BQA Awards, funded in part by the Beef Checkoff, annually recognize outstanding educators, beef and dairy producers, and marketers. “These winners are committed to incorporating BQA principles into their day-to-day operations,” said Josh White, senior executive director of producer education and sustainability at NCBA. “Their dedication to animal care and continuous improvements results in high-quality beef for consumers.” When New Mexico brought BQA to the state in the early 1990s, Dr. John Wenzel, DVM, then in private practice, stepped up to teach producers the principles and management techniques to improve beef quality and safety. He traveled thousands of miles on his own dime to conduct BQA training sessions for hundreds of beef producers throughout the state. Currently the NMSU Cooperative Extension Service DVM, Dr. Wenzel trains producers on how to provide the safest and most wholesome beef products possible. The end goal is building consumer confidence which is also the main focus of his BQA education program. His decades of service to his profession, community, state, college and universities, along with noted success of numerous programs, contributes to his reputation as a professional influencer and quality educator in this industry. Award winners are selected by a committee comprised of BQA certified representatives from universities, state beef councils, sponsors and affiliated groups, who assess nominations based on their demonstrated commitment to BQA practices, their service as leaders in the beef industry and their dedication to promoting the BQA message to grow consumer confidence. Dr. Wenzel was nominated for this prestigious national award by Dina Reitzel, Executive Director of the New Mexico Beef Council; Shanna Ivey, PhD, Department Head and Professor, Animal and Range Sciences and Extension Animal Sciences and Natural Resources, New Mexico State University; and Loren Patterson, President of the New Mexico Cattle Growers Association. He was honored on the national stage and a reception was sponsored for Dr. Wenzel by the New Mexico Beef Council and hosted at the NMSU Animal Sciences booth at the 2024 Cattlecon Cattle Industry convention trade show in Orlando last month. Congratulations Dr. Wenzel! To view the video click on the following link: 2024 BQA Educator Award Dr John Wenzel (youtube.com) |
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NM 4-H FCS School of Real Life Skillz One hundred twenty-four New Mexico 4-H members ages 9–12 recently participated in the Family & Consumer Science (FCS) School of Real Life Skillz, a statewide 4-H event held March 8–10 at the 4-H Center in Bernalillo County. The youth selected one track in which to participate, learn, and develop new skills. Track areas included baking, quilting, STEAM, babysitting, photography, outdoor cooking, quilling/ceramics/painting, and jewelry making/scrapbooking/NM round up. New this year, 4-H attendees were invited to participate in a community service project titled Dress A Girl Around the World. This national program spreads awareness and works to fight human trafficking of young girls around the world. The 4-H members sewed 40 dresses that will be shipped to underdeveloped countries and gifted to young girls. For more information about the 4-H FCS School of Real Life Skillz, please contact Marissa Morgan, 4-H/FCS State Agent at marmorg@nmsu.edu. |
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2024 NM State 4-H Shooting Sports Leader Training Over one hundred New Mexico 4-H adult volunteers convened February 17–18 at the Albuquerque Shooting Range Park for the 2024 New Mexico State 4-H Shooting Sports Leader Training. Adult 4-H volunteers who participated in the 15-hour training developed skills and knowledge about teaching 4-H youth life skills and other crucial aspects of 4-H positive youth development, through 4-H age-appropriate techniques of teaching safe and responsible handling of firearms and archery equipment. When asked what they learned that will help them become better 4-H Shooting Sports instructors, volunteers responded: - 4-H First Shot Fundamentals engages kids right off the bat!
- Education is the foundation of all 4-H programs, including 4-H Shooting Sports.
- I learned how to keep everyone safe while engaging in their 4-H Shooting Sports project.
For more information about the State 4-H Shooting Sports program, contact Sam Lowry, State 4-H Agent for Ag and Natural Resources at samlowry@nmsu.edu. |
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The NM State 4-H Leadership Team recently traveled to Washington, D.C. for the Educational Leadership Event, a yearly event created in 2019 through the vision of Jeff Witte, New Mexico Secretary of Agriculture. The program includes scheduled meetings with NM Congressional Delegation, United States Department of Agriculture Under Secretaries and key leaders in the Agriculture Industry. The experience introduces youth to the NM Congressional Delegation, provides opportunities to inform the Delegation about 4-H, and allows youth opportunities to practice communication skills. Meetings with the agriculture industry inform youth of business operations and internship possibilities while developing a professional network. Team members commented: “It was an amazing experience to hear about agriculture at the national level. There is so much more out there than you could even imagine.” “The most impactful part of this trip was speaking to all of the agencies and learning the importance of their jobs and how it affects everyone in the agriculture industry.” “The most impactful part of this DC trip was the connections formed between agricultural agencies and the professional opportunities that I learned about.” For more information, please contact Cheryl Butterfield, State Agent of Volunteer and Leadership Development at cherylb@nmsu.edu. |
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AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION |
The Corona Range and Livestock Research Center (CRLRC) is a ranch research facility with a focus on sustainability. Spring is a busy time at the CRLRC, with calving in full swing, a lot of work tagging and weighing calves, and feeding the cows out on pasture. Recently, a new project was initiated by Taylor Andrews, a doctoral student who is investigating the impact of increased bypass protein and its source on reproduction in replacement heifers. In addition to ongoing research, new feeding technology has arrived at the ranch with the delivery of two C-LOCK Super Smart Feeding systems. These solar-powered feeding systems can be placed out on pasture. They will read individual cow electronic identification ear tags and only allow cows to consume the supplement or the amount of supplement programmed into the system. This will allow researchers to expand pasture supplementation experiments. For more information, contact AES Communications and Reporting Director Claire Montoya at ccortner@nmsu.edu. |
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C-LOCK Super Smart Feed. The gates in the back will lower, making a short alley-way to each feeding slot in the trailer. Each trailer can hold four different feeds. |
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EXTENSION FAMILY & CONSUMER SCIENCES |
Farmer Stress Presentation at Western Pecan Growers Conference The 58th annual Western Pecan Growers Association Conference & Trade Show took place on March 3–5, 2024. At the conference, Dr. Karim Martinez, Extension Family Life and Child Development Specialist, gave a presentation on Farmer Stress Management Resources. Agricultural communities have experienced increases in stress, mental health challenges and suicide. In fact, the agricultural industry has the highest rate of suicide by occupation in America. During her presentation, Dr. Martinez shared information about the signs and symptoms of stress, the importance of checking in with family, friends, and colleagues and highlighted resources addressing stress and mental health challenges. She also showed the farmer stress video, On Common Ground – Mental Health in Rural New Mexico. The goal of the video is to create awareness and reduce stigma surrounding mental health challenges through testimonials from people involved in New Mexico agriculture. It also promotes strategies for managing stress, building resilience, and reaching out to mental health professionals when necessary. Key messages are: “Your community cares about you,” “It’s okay not to be okay,” and “You are not alone.” The video was produced by the ACES Innovative Media Research and Extension Department in partnership with the New Mexico Department of Agriculture, New Mexico Cooperative Extension Service and the New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau through the Here to Help NM initiative. To learn more about the Here to Help NM initiative visit https://heretohelpnm.com/. To view the video visit https://youtu.be/-Eg6aqwHdo8. |
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FAMILY & CONSUMER SCIENCES |
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New Mexico State University’s Cooperative Extension Service hosted an in-person food safety certification course for food manufacturing industry professionals. The “Preventive Controls for Human Foods” course was held on NMSU’s Las Cruces campus March 12–14. There were 18 participants representing 10 different local food manufacturing businesses. Inspectors from the City of Albuquerque – Environmental Health Department also attended the workshop. Participants learned the key elements of a food safety plan, how to conduct a hazard analysis for biological, chemical, and physical hazards, how to develop and implement risk based preventive controls such as process, sanitation, allergen and supplier, appropriate verification and validation procedures, record keeping, and understand the requirements of a recall plan. This course is designed to meet the requirement for training required by the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act to become a Preventive Controls Qualified Individual (PCQI). The workshop was taught by Dr. Luis Sabillon (NMSU) and Dr. Nancy Flores (NMSU) in collaboration with Dr. Byron Chaves from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. This workshop was partially funded by a USDA – Food Safety Outreach Program, Grant Number 2021-70020-35829. For more information, contact Dr. Luis E. Sabillon at lsabillo@nmsu.edu |
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INNOVATIVE MEDIA RESEARCH & EXTENSION |
Dr. Eugene’s Biotech Lab: A New Learning Game from the College of ACES Middle school students can play a new game where they explore the ways gene editing and bioengineering contribute to human health, plant and animal agriculture and environmental protection. Dr. Eugene’s Biotech Lab gives players nine different scenarios to use gene editing and other bioengineering strategies to modify plants and animals to support health, nutrition, and environmental benefits. Players serve as scientists and go through a simulated process of gene editing – for example, modifying a crop to be pest resistant – testing the results, and sharing their findings. Each in-game project is based on a real world example and conveys the safety protocols and processes used by scientists. The game gives learners a context of some of the limitations and potential of gene editing. The Learning Games Lab in ACES’ Department of Innovative Media Research and Extension collaborated with University of Connecticut Extension and biotechnology experts on the newly-released project. The Connecticut 4-H program offered a biotechnology project where youth engaged in learning about genes and other technology, took field trips, and met with researchers. The youth then pitched game ideas based on their experiences. The Learning Games Lab design professionals created a game based on those ideas, and youth will now take a role in marketing and promoting the game. Play the game for free at https://4hbiotechgames.com Dr. Eugene’s Biotech Lab is the first in a series of three 4-H Biotech Games to be produced by the Learning Games Lab with support from the Food and Agriculture Nonformal Education program, USDA-NIFA grant no. 2022-68018-36094. |
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NEW MEXICO FFA ASSOCIATION |
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| NMFFA State Career Development Events The beginning of April marks an exciting time for New Mexico FFA members! Las Cruces will host over 1,000 FFA members from across the state who will be competing in 22 Career Development Events. These events are designed to combine agricultural skills and knowledge with leadership and teamwork. The events range from Agricultural Mechanics to Veterinary Science. There is truly an event for every member to learn and grow while gaining knowledge they can carry into the real world. The goal is to bring home a State Champion banner, but everyone who leaves Las Cruces will also bring home an experience that they won’t forget. These events will take place April 3–5 in Las Cruces, primarily on the NMSU main campus. The FFA Fest Barbecue hosted by the ACES College, and NMDA is designed to welcome the FFA members in and showcase the ACES college! |
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The New Mexico FFA Association would like to extend our appreciation to all volunteers helping with these events. Your time is valued and appreciated! |
For more information about NMFFA and future events visit our website and social media pages. Website: http://www.nmffa.org Facebook: New Mexico FFA |
SCHOOL OF HOTEL, RESTAURANT & TOURISM MANAGEMENT |
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| In honor of Women's History Month, Visit Las Cruces proudly features Dr. Jean Hertzman on its website blog, highlighting her invaluable contributions to the tourism and hospitality industry in the region. As a trailblazer in her field, Dr. Hertzman epitomizes the spirit of innovation and excellence. With her visionary leadership and unwavering dedication, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of tourism experiences in Las Cruces and beyond. Join us in celebrating Dr. Hertzman and her remarkable contributions during Women's History Month and beyond. To read the full article click on the following link: Las Cruces Women Pioneers, Industry Drivers (visitlascruces.com) |
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School of Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Management Alumnus Chris Ortiz wins the Inaugural 575 Food Fight
This semester was the launch of the 575 Food Fights, a bracket style culinary contest organized by Chef Danielle Young and the students in her HRTM 443 Meetings, Conventions, and Special Events class. Local chefs and culinary students competed in a head-to-head secret ingredient challenge, making two dishes within one hour. Family, friends, and other community supporters consumed snacks and beverages while cheering for the competitors. The contestants for the first fight on February 26 were three Doña Ana Community College students – Daniela Tuda, Illyana Varela, and Mario Beltran – and one El Paso Community student – Andres Flores. On March 4, two more DACC students – Elizabeth Quintana and Andres Sanchez – competed with two HRTM Alumni – Chris Ortiz, a culinary teacher for Deming High School, and Anthony Rodgers, a consultant with Pecan Grill. Illyana and Andres won the first fight to challenge Chris and Anthony on March 18. Chris Ortiz won with his awesome dishes highlighting the secret ingredients – root beer, fennel, and Gruyère cheese.
Thank you to Kaden Martinez for the great write-up and pictures of the first competition in the NMSU Roundup, https://nmsuroundup.com/24492/campus-life/575-food-fight-at-nmsu-invites-local-chefs-to-compete-head-to-head/#. Other student journalists, including ACES’ Anne Hodnett, will also be publishing videos and articles about the competition. We look forward to hosting this culinary challenge again in the Fall. |
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Mountain Meadow Wool (MMW) Internship Program Framework Applications open with a maximum of eight interns selected from participating colleges and universities. Selections are made as applications are received. MMW anticipates filling the intern positions by mid-April, so apply early. Goal Our goal for the 2024 MMW internship program is to immerse students into the wool textile industry by offering an interactive learning experience where students will have a one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn about the entire wool process from scouring through knitting, have hands-on machine time processing fiber, and work with a team to take a product from R&D to market. This is an unparalleled experience to learn about the unique differences in wool types, gain first-hand processing knowledge, and learn about value-added agriculture business and marketing. MMW will cater the internship program to each intern based on their career objectives and learning interests. Basic Requirements - Pursuing a degree program (associates, bachelors, or masters) in Textile Design or Engineering, Agriculture Business or Marketing, Animal Science, Mechanical Engineering, or an alternative related degree.
- 18+ years of age.
- Housing provided in Sheridan, WY with a commute of 35 miles to Buffalo, WY (or housing can be arranged on your own).
- Demonstrates a curiosity to learn and shows a passion toward the sheep & ag industry.
Benefits - 40 hours per week with flexible work schedules (specific schedules determined prior to Week 1)
- $16-18/hr pay
- Housing provided by Mountain Meadow Wool in Sheridan College dorms (30 min drive)
- Experience working in all phases of a vertically integrated wool processing operation
- Mill organized events (hikes/dinners/etc)
- Facility tours of other regional manufacturers
- Work and live minutes away from outstanding outdoor recreation opportunities in the Bighorn Mountains
For more information, contact Dr. Jennifer Hernandez Gifford at jgifford@nmsu.edu |
Dr. Claudia Trueblood's Debut Publication Unravels Complexities of the Rio Grande Compact In her debut publication, Dr. Claudia Trueblood, along with collaborators, delves into the intricate dynamics of the 1938 Rio Grande Compact. The publication marks a significant milestone in her academic journey while contributing to the field of hydrology. The Rio Grande Compact, an interstate agreement signed over eight decades ago between Colorado, New Mexico, and Texas, aimed to equitably distribute water resources within the Rio Grande Basin. However, recent legal disputes revolving around water shortages have underscored the need for a deeper understanding of the complex interactions between water availability and delivery. The study is a statistical analysis of water allocation within the compact, focusing on the disparities between water available and water delivered by the signatory states. The study uncovered potential autocorrelations and fluctuations in water deliveries, highlighting the potential financial implications of those discrepancies. The research unveils crucial insights into the behavior of water deliveries from Colorado and New Mexico. Through the innovative application of transfer function modeling, the study reveals intricate relationships between scheduled deliveries and actual deliveries, offering predictive capabilities crucial for effective water resource management. The methodology contributes to the extensive body of literature on the Rio Grande Compact with broader implications for transboundary water sharing agreements worldwide. The study is an example of how data-driven approaches could aid water managers, policymakers, and stakeholders towards solutions to the pressing challenges of water scarcity and equitable distribution. As a former member of the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, Dr. Trueblood exemplifies the college's commitment to scholarly excellence and real-world impact. Her research underscores the vital role of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing complex environmental challenges, embodying the college's ethos of fostering sustainable solutions for the betterment of society. For more information, contact Dr. Claudia Trueblood at cmt@nmsu.edu and to view the full publication visit the following link: Characterization of the Water Supply of the Rio Grande Project Based on Rio Grande Compact Reports 1940–2020 | Journal of Water Resources Planning and Management | Vol 150, No 4 (ascelibrary.org) |
The LEADING Hispanics program is now accepting applications for 2024/2025 for graduate and undergraduate students. Scan the QR below or click on the following link to access the application: LEADING Hispanics Application Fall 2024 (Part 1 of 2) (Page 1 of 17) (office.com) |
Click on the following link to give to the College of ACES. Give Now | New Mexico State University Foundation (nmsu.edu) You can also contact Planning Officer Erika De La O. Medina at erikadlo@nmsu.edu for more information on how to give to the College of ACES. |
The College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences (ACES) annual report provides an overview of accomplishments during 2022, including impacts, productivity
and goals for each unit, area and program. These accomplishments reflect our work in
teaching, research and extension. To view our College of ACES 2022 Annual Report click on the following link: Annual Reports | New Mexico State University - BE BOLD. Shape the Future. (nmsu.edu) |
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A double major in Spanish and agricultural education at NMSU, Sofía involves herself in a variety of activities. NMSU’s College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences offers programs and courses that allow her to sharpen her welding and carpentry skills and tend to the livestock on campus. Each activity allows the aspiring educator to work hands-on and gain a greater understanding of what a future career in agriculture might look like. To view her video jouney click on the following link: NMSU Journeys: Sofía Uviña - NMSU Journeys (wistia.com) |
COLLEGE OF ACES MAGAZINE – SPRING 2024 ISSUE |
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The College of Agriculture, Consumer and Environmental Sciences is an engine for economic and community development in New Mexico, improving the lives of New Mexicans through academic, research, and Extension programs. |
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