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A MESSAGE FROM OUR DEAN Dear friends and alumni of the College of ACES, First, I would like to extend my warmest wishes for a happy and prosperous new year. As we step into this year, we look forward to achieving multiple successes and fostering stability within our university community. We are thrilled to share the exciting news that the PhD program in Applied and Agricultural Biology has been formally approved in Santa Fe. This approval brings two additional PhD programs to the College of ACES, marking a significant milestone for the future of both our college and the university, as well as benefiting taxpayers across New Mexico. Two additional programs are currently under review and awaiting approval. The new year has begun on a high note, with students actively engaging in various activities, and we are optimistic about the many accomplishments that lie ahead. In closing, I want to express my gratitude to all our supporters and extend my best wishes for a successful and inspiring spring semester in 2025. GO AGGIES! |
A MESSAGE FROM OUR DEAN Dear friends and alumni of the College of ACES, First, I would like to extend my warmest wishes for a happy and prosperous new year. As we step into this year, we look forward to achieving multiple successes and fostering stability within our university community. We are thrilled to share the exciting news that the PhD program in Applied and Agricultural Biology has been formally approved in Santa Fe. This approval brings two additional PhD programs to the College of ACES, marking a significant milestone for the future of both our college and the university, as well as benefiting taxpayers across New Mexico. Two additional programs are currently under review and awaiting approval. The new year has begun on a high note, with students actively engaging in various activities, and we are optimistic about the many accomplishments that lie ahead. In closing, I want to express my gratitude to all our supporters and extend my best wishes for a successful and inspiring spring semester in 2025. GO AGGIES! |
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Rolando A. Flores Galarza Dean & Chief Administrative Officer |
Rolando A. Flores Galarza Dean & Chief Administrative Officer |
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The new PhD program in Applied and Agricultural Biology is a multi-disciplinary degree encompassing Entomology, Plant Pathology, and Weed Science. PhD students in this program will evaluate outbreaks of organisms that are harmful to New Mexico agriculture, find solutions and develop tools to suppress these organisms and to conserve beneficial species, and investigate similar challenges in urban and natural resource environments. These PhD students will investigate these topics from molecular to landscape scales to improve plant and animal protection and health, food security, and human health. The Applied and Agricultural Biology PhD program is important to New Mexico as it supports sustainable and value-added agriculture, one of the priority sectors identified for economic growth. With this PhD program, NMSU will have the ability to attract New Mexico students looking for an advanced degree and keep their expertise in New Mexico. For more information, contact Department Head of EPPWS Dr. Ricardo Ramirez at ricarami@nmsu.edu. |
The new PhD program in Applied and Agricultural Biology is a multi-disciplinary degree encompassing Entomology, Plant Pathology, and Weed Science. PhD students in this program will evaluate outbreaks of organisms that are harmful to New Mexico agriculture, find solutions and develop tools to suppress these organisms and to conserve beneficial species, and investigate similar challenges in urban and natural resource environments. These PhD students will investigate these topics from molecular to landscape scales to improve plant and animal protection and health, food security, and human health. The Applied and Agricultural Biology PhD program is important to New Mexico as it supports sustainable and value-added agriculture, one of the priority sectors identified for economic growth. With this PhD program, NMSU will have the ability to attract New Mexico students looking for an advanced degree and keep their expertise in New Mexico. For more information, contact Department Head of EPPWS Dr. Ricardo Ramirez at ricarami@nmsu.edu. |
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NMSU honors faculty for creative scholarly activity, outreach at spring convocation New Mexico State University bestowed several prestigious awards for creative scholarly activity and community outreach as it kicked off the spring 2025 semester with a new president at the helm. NMSU’s spring convocation brought together more than 200 Aggies who gathered Tuesday, Jan. 14, in Atkinson Recital Hall on the Las Cruces campus to cheer on the group of award winners. It was the first convocation presided over by NMSU President Valerio Ferme. Ferme opened his remarks by calling on Aggies across the NMSU system to build a culture of gratitude and acknowledge individuals who contribute to NMSU’s success, regardless of the size of their impact. He also spoke of NMSU’s founding as the state’s first land-grand institution and his admiration of faculty and staff who work daily to carry out the university’s mission to advance knowledge on behalf of New Mexico citizens. “From the beginning, then, our duties were to pursue research that would advance knowledge and well-being, whether as pure research or as applied research that benefited the state, its citizens and their educational attainment,” he said. “While one can debate what falls under the broad swath of charges, one thing is clear: We – actually you – have been taking that responsibility seriously.” Ferme added that NMSU will earn R1 status as a top-tier research university next month. He concluded by sharing his vision for achieving greater success. “I strive for integrity, curiosity and a growth mindset,” he said. “I am team-based, and together, I believe we can work toward goals that, while allowing for individuality, move forward the greater good of the community and transform the lives of the people we serve.” He added, “I am an idealist, but I have a pragmatic streak that my American mother instilled in me. I want to work with you and in your service to aim high. But, together, we need to be accountable to our underlying mission.” In separate remarks, interim Provost Lakshmi Reddi spoke about the strides NMSU is making in data custody and access, international services, enrollment management, student retention and recruitment activities. Reddi also thanked faculty and staff for their unwavering dedication to students and their success. “Your work behind the scenes has taught me how thankful our students are on this campus for your services,” he said. “They particularly appreciate outside-the-classroom mentoring that this campus is uniquely providing.” Later during the ceremony, NMSU recognized 19 award recipients, including 10 from the University Research Council and nine from the Provost’s Award Committee. The recipients and awards included our very own ICAN program selected by the Provost’s Award Committee. Ideas for Cooking and Nutrition, a program facilitated by NMSU’s Cooperative Extension Service for more than 50 years, received the Community Engagement, Extension and Outreach Award. Since 2021, the award recognizes faculty who best exemplify community engagement, extension and outreach. Through a team of nutrition educators across New Mexico, ICAN helps families make healthy food and lifestyle choices by creating health-friendly communities. NMSU professional staff train ICAN nutrition educators to deliver free, experiential, interactive and evidence-based lessons in English and Spanish. Each year, ICAN engages with more than 53,000 New Mexico residents at 277 community sites. Please join us in congratulating our team, and to view the full article click on the following link: NMSU honors faculty for creative scholarly activity, community outreach at spring 2025 convocation |
NMSU honors faculty for creative scholarly activity, outreach at spring convocation New Mexico State University bestowed several prestigious awards for creative scholarly activity and community outreach as it kicked off the spring 2025 semester with a new president at the helm. NMSU’s spring convocation brought together more than 200 Aggies who gathered Tuesday, Jan. 14, in Atkinson Recital Hall on the Las Cruces campus to cheer on the group of award winners. It was the first convocation presided over by NMSU President Valerio Ferme. Ferme opened his remarks by calling on Aggies across the NMSU system to build a culture of gratitude and acknowledge individuals who contribute to NMSU’s success, regardless of the size of their impact. He also spoke of NMSU’s founding as the state’s first land-grand institution and his admiration of faculty and staff who work daily to carry out the university’s mission to advance knowledge on behalf of New Mexico citizens. “From the beginning, then, our duties were to pursue research that would advance knowledge and well-being, whether as pure research or as applied research that benefited the state, its citizens and their educational attainment,” he said. “While one can debate what falls under the broad swath of charges, one thing is clear: We – actually you – have been taking that responsibility seriously.” Ferme added that NMSU will earn R1 status as a top-tier research university next month. He concluded by sharing his vision for achieving greater success. “I strive for integrity, curiosity and a growth mindset,” he said. “I am team-based, and together, I believe we can work toward goals that, while allowing for individuality, move forward the greater good of the community and transform the lives of the people we serve.” He added, “I am an idealist, but I have a pragmatic streak that my American mother instilled in me. I want to work with you and in your service to aim high. But, together, we need to be accountable to our underlying mission.” In separate remarks, interim Provost Lakshmi Reddi spoke about the strides NMSU is making in data custody and access, international services, enrollment management, student retention and recruitment activities. Reddi also thanked faculty and staff for their unwavering dedication to students and their success. “Your work behind the scenes has taught me how thankful our students are on this campus for your services,” he said. “They particularly appreciate outside-the-classroom mentoring that this campus is uniquely providing.” Later during the ceremony, NMSU recognized 19 award recipients, including 10 from the University Research Council and nine from the Provost’s Award Committee. The recipients and awards included our very own ICAN program selected by the Provost’s Award Committee. Ideas for Cooking and Nutrition, a program facilitated by NMSU’s Cooperative Extension Service for more than 50 years, received the Community Engagement, Extension and Outreach Award. Since 2021, the award recognizes faculty who best exemplify community engagement, extension and outreach. Through a team of nutrition educators across New Mexico, ICAN helps families make healthy food and lifestyle choices by creating health-friendly communities. NMSU professional staff train ICAN nutrition educators to deliver free, experiential, interactive and evidence-based lessons in English and Spanish. Each year, ICAN engages with more than 53,000 New Mexico residents at 277 community sites. Please join us in congratulating our team, and to view the full article click on the following link: NMSU honors faculty for creative scholarly activity, community outreach at spring 2025 convocation |
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ICAN staff members, pictured from left to right, include Gabriel Gomez, Brenda Weatherford, Ester Thompson, Donna Sauter, Abigail Orta, Marisa Van Dommelen and Angie Jonsson. Not pictured is Marisa Stevenson. (NMSU photo by Josh Bachman) |
ICAN staff members, pictured from left to right, include Gabriel Gomez, Brenda Weatherford, Ester Thompson, Donna Sauter, Abigail Orta, Marisa Van Dommelen and Angie Jonsson. Not pictured is Marisa Stevenson. (NMSU photo by Josh Bachman) |
NMSU researcher to lead workshop on plant pathogen A New Mexico State University researcher will lead a workshop on one of the most common plant pathogens during the 2025 New Mexico Chile Conference in February. Soum Sanogo, a professor of fungal plant pathology in the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, will present the “Spring Institute on Phytophthora Research and Extension” from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 3, at the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum in Las Cruces. The event is part of an effort to disseminate information from a multi-state research project dedicated to curbing Phytophthora blight caused by a soilborne pathogen known as Phytophthora capsici. This pathogen causes fruit rot, root rot, rapid wilting and plant death in vegetables and fruits like melons, cucumbers, pumpkins, squash, peppers, tomatoes, eggplants, snap beans and lima beans. Funding for the research project comes from a $5.9 million grant from the National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s Specialty Crop Research Initiative, part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. This event is open to crop and soil health specialists, county Extension agents, growers, processors, agricultural practitioners, K-12 science teachers and students, post-secondary students, 4-H and FFA members, and the general public. The event will provide background on Phytophthora blight, its impact on crops and updates on research efforts to combat the disease. All those who plan to attend should contact Sanogo at ssanogo@nmsu.edu or Jason Fechner jfechner@nmsu.edu to coordinate arrangements for registration. |
NMSU researcher to lead workshop on plant pathogen A New Mexico State University researcher will lead a workshop on one of the most common plant pathogens during the 2025 New Mexico Chile Conference in February. Soum Sanogo, a professor of fungal plant pathology in the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, will present the “Spring Institute on Phytophthora Research and Extension” from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 3, at the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum in Las Cruces. The event is part of an effort to disseminate information from a multi-state research project dedicated to curbing Phytophthora blight caused by a soilborne pathogen known as Phytophthora capsici. This pathogen causes fruit rot, root rot, rapid wilting and plant death in vegetables and fruits like melons, cucumbers, pumpkins, squash, peppers, tomatoes, eggplants, snap beans and lima beans. Funding for the research project comes from a $5.9 million grant from the National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s Specialty Crop Research Initiative, part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. This event is open to crop and soil health specialists, county Extension agents, growers, processors, agricultural practitioners, K-12 science teachers and students, post-secondary students, 4-H and FFA members, and the general public. The event will provide background on Phytophthora blight, its impact on crops and updates on research efforts to combat the disease. All those who plan to attend should contact Sanogo at ssanogo@nmsu.edu or Jason Fechner jfechner@nmsu.edu to coordinate arrangements for registration. |
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Soum Sanogo, professor of fungal plant pathology at New Mexico State University (NMSU photo by Josh Bachman) |
Soum Sanogo, professor of fungal plant pathology at New Mexico State University (NMSU photo by Josh Bachman) |
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ACES Academic Programs Office Kicks of the Spring Semester with Faculty Development Opportunities The College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences (ACES) launched the spring semester on Friday, January 10, with two impactful faculty development sessions advancing student success and academic excellence. Dean Rolando Flores opened the event by welcoming faculty and expressing his gratitude for their continued commitment to providing high-quality undergraduate and graduate programs. The first session featured Dr. Cecilia Hernandez, the recently appointed Associate Provost for Institutional Effectiveness. Dr. Hernandez highlighted the critical role of faculty in outcomes assessment and its role in driving student success. As NMSU prepares for our upcoming Higher Learning Commission accreditation review, she outlined her plans to work closely with academic units to foster a culture of continuous improvement. In the second session, Dr. Ranjit Koodali, Dean of the Graduate School and Associate Provost for International Affairs, introduced several exciting initiatives promoting excellence and innovation in graduate education. Dean Koodali also detailed the resources and support available to academic units through his office, which aim to strengthen graduate programs and enrich the student experience. For more information, contact Priscilla Bloomquist at (575) 646-2877 or pbloomqu@nmsu.edu. |
ACES Academic Programs Office Kicks of the Spring Semester with Faculty Development Opportunities The College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences (ACES) launched the spring semester on Friday, January 10, with two impactful faculty development sessions advancing student success and academic excellence. Dean Rolando Flores opened the event by welcoming faculty and expressing his gratitude for their continued commitment to providing high-quality undergraduate and graduate programs. The first session featured Dr. Cecilia Hernandez, the recently appointed Associate Provost for Institutional Effectiveness. Dr. Hernandez highlighted the critical role of faculty in outcomes assessment and its role in driving student success. As NMSU prepares for our upcoming Higher Learning Commission accreditation review, she outlined her plans to work closely with academic units to foster a culture of continuous improvement. In the second session, Dr. Ranjit Koodali, Dean of the Graduate School and Associate Provost for International Affairs, introduced several exciting initiatives promoting excellence and innovation in graduate education. Dean Koodali also detailed the resources and support available to academic units through his office, which aim to strengthen graduate programs and enrich the student experience. For more information, contact Priscilla Bloomquist at (575) 646-2877 or pbloomqu@nmsu.edu. |
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Dr. Ranjit Koodali, NMSU’s Dean of the Graduate School and Associate Provost for International Affairs, addresses ACES faculty. |
Dr. Ranjit Koodali, NMSU’s Dean of the Graduate School and Associate Provost for International Affairs, addresses ACES faculty. |
| Dean Rolando Flores introduces Dr. Cecilia Hernandez, NMSU’s Associate Provost for Institutional Effectiveness. |
Dean Rolando Flores introduces Dr. Cecilia Hernandez, NMSU’s Associate Provost for Institutional Effectiveness. |
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AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION |
AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION |
As we look toward the new year, the Agricultural Experiment Station is excited to continue serving New Mexico by enhancing research efforts on campus and across the state. The research that is ongoing and emerging impacts New Mexicans and those throughout the Southwest region. The impact on agricultural producers boosts the economy and provides solutions to challenges related to food security, climate change, and livestock production. The Associate Dean and AES Director, along with all the faculty and staff at AES, appreciate the support of the local, state, and national stakeholders. Here is an example of the impactful research going on at the Agricultural Science Center in Clovis, NM. Developing Effective Adaptation Strategies for Farmers in Arid/Semi-arid Regions The increasing cost of farm operations, soil degradation, and climate change and variability in recent years are adding pressure on farmers from both production and environmental sustainability perspectives. The overarching goal of this interdisciplinary multi-state project is to make agricultural systems more resilient to climate change, reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from agricultural sources in an environmentally sustainable manner (e.g., improving soil health and water and air quality), and enhance the resilience of farmers to the negative consequences of climate change. The ASC Clovis will be evaluating the responses of sorghum and cotton to environmental stressors (drought, heat) and how specialty biochar could help improve resilience. The project is expected to enhance the resilience of the agricultural sector to climate change, which substantially affects farming communities and will contribute to the sustainability of agriculture and food security. The engineered biochar produced would help reduce the negative impacts of climate change and enhance soil health and water quality. For more information, contact Communications & Reporting Director Claire Montoya at ccortner@nmsu.edu |
As we look toward the new year, the Agricultural Experiment Station is excited to continue serving New Mexico by enhancing research efforts on campus and across the state. The research that is ongoing and emerging impacts New Mexicans and those throughout the Southwest region. The impact on agricultural producers boosts the economy and provides solutions to challenges related to food security, climate change, and livestock production. The Associate Dean and AES Director, along with all the faculty and staff at AES, appreciate the support of the local, state, and national stakeholders. Here is an example of the impactful research going on at the Agricultural Science Center in Clovis, NM. Developing Effective Adaptation Strategies for Farmers in Arid/Semi-arid Regions The increasing cost of farm operations, soil degradation, and climate change and variability in recent years are adding pressure on farmers from both production and environmental sustainability perspectives. The overarching goal of this interdisciplinary multi-state project is to make agricultural systems more resilient to climate change, reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from agricultural sources in an environmentally sustainable manner (e.g., improving soil health and water and air quality), and enhance the resilience of farmers to the negative consequences of climate change. The ASC Clovis will be evaluating the responses of sorghum and cotton to environmental stressors (drought, heat) and how specialty biochar could help improve resilience. The project is expected to enhance the resilience of the agricultural sector to climate change, which substantially affects farming communities and will contribute to the sustainability of agriculture and food security. The engineered biochar produced would help reduce the negative impacts of climate change and enhance soil health and water quality. For more information, contact Communications & Reporting Director Claire Montoya at ccortner@nmsu.edu |
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AGRICULTURAL & EXTENSION EDUCATION |
AGRICULTURAL & EXTENSION EDUCATION |
We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Frank "Richie" Roberts has joined New Mexico State University as the Head of the Department of Agricultural and Extension Education! Dr. Roberts brings extensive experience and expertise to this role, and we are excited about the vision and leadership he will bring to the department. Together, we look forward to advancing the goals of LEADS 2025 and building a strong future for the department. Please join us in giving Dr. Roberts a warm welcome as he embarks on this new chapter with NMSU. Welcome aboard, Dr. Roberts! Dr. Robert's contact email is roberts3@nmsu.edu |
We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Frank "Richie" Roberts has joined New Mexico State University as the Head of the Department of Agricultural and Extension Education! Dr. Roberts brings extensive experience and expertise to this role, and we are excited about the vision and leadership he will bring to the department. Together, we look forward to advancing the goals of LEADS 2025 and building a strong future for the department. Please join us in giving Dr. Roberts a warm welcome as he embarks on this new chapter with NMSU. Welcome aboard, Dr. Roberts! Dr. Robert's contact email is roberts3@nmsu.edu |
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Dr. Richie Roberts is originally from Lane, Oklahoma. Dr. Roberts has four years of experience teaching secondary agricultural education in Oklahoma. He completed his bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. at Oklahoma State University. In 2017, he joined the North Carolina A&T State University faculty as an assistant professor in the Department of Agribusiness, Applied Economics, and Agriscience Education. Then, in 2018, Richie joined the faculty at Louisiana State University as an assistant professor in the Department of Agricultural and Extension Education and Evaluation. In 2022, Dr. Roberts earned tenure, was promoted to associate professor at LSU, and was later awarded the Harry Clayton Sanders Endowed Professorship in Extension Education. Dr. Roberts began as a Professor and Department Head for Agricultural and Extension Education on December 2, 2025. |
Dr. Richie Roberts is originally from Lane, Oklahoma. Dr. Roberts has four years of experience teaching secondary agricultural education in Oklahoma. He completed his bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. at Oklahoma State University. In 2017, he joined the North Carolina A&T State University faculty as an assistant professor in the Department of Agribusiness, Applied Economics, and Agriscience Education. Then, in 2018, Richie joined the faculty at Louisiana State University as an assistant professor in the Department of Agricultural and Extension Education and Evaluation. In 2022, Dr. Roberts earned tenure, was promoted to associate professor at LSU, and was later awarded the Harry Clayton Sanders Endowed Professorship in Extension Education. Dr. Roberts began as a Professor and Department Head for Agricultural and Extension Education on December 2, 2025. |
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| The Department of Agricultural and Extension Education (AXED) at New Mexico State University is excited to welcome Madison Dyment as an Assistant Professor of Agricultural Communications in August 2025, pending the completion of her Ph.D. Madison earned a B.S. in Community and Leadership Development and a B.A. in Journalism from the University of Kentucky, as well as a M.S. in Agricultural Communications from The Ohio State University. In May 2025, Madison is expected to complete her Ph.D. in Agricultural Education and Communication from the University of Florida. |
The Department of Agricultural and Extension Education (AXED) at New Mexico State University is excited to welcome Madison Dyment as an Assistant Professor of Agricultural Communications in August 2025, pending the completion of her Ph.D. Madison earned a B.S. in Community and Leadership Development and a B.A. in Journalism from the University of Kentucky, as well as a M.S. in Agricultural Communications from The Ohio State University. In May 2025, Madison is expected to complete her Ph.D. in Agricultural Education and Communication from the University of Florida. |
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Madison’s research focuses on improving human aspects of agricultural and livestock systems for producer benefit with strategic science communication through intersections of intentional educational experiences, cross-cultural relationships, and One Health systems approaches. Her prominent areas of inquiry include industry-centered formal and nonformal educational experiences, integration of stakeholders into higher education, impacts of livestock systems in One Health and crisis communication contexts, identity research in agricultural contexts, and the advancement of intercultural relationships and collaborations for industry professionals and agricultural producers. Madison has also been heavily involved in collaborative teaching and Extension efforts. For example, she co-developed an international course collaboration with the University of Guelph – Ontario Agricultural College and the Streaming Science project for a student-driven podcast series, Sustainable Solutions: From Guelph to Gainesville (https://streamingscience.com/sustainable-solutions-from-guelph-to-gainesville/). She also designed an online professional course in policy communication in agriculture and natural resources contexts (https://piecenter.com/pie-academy/). Further, Madison has co-developed and co-led innovative professional development on artificial intelligence (AI) use in communication education, podcast production in scientific contexts for 4-H youth, and effective oral communication for 4-H dairy youth exhibition. Join us in welcoming Dr. Madison Dyment her contact email is madison.dyment@ufl.edu. |
Madison’s research focuses on improving human aspects of agricultural and livestock systems for producer benefit with strategic science communication through intersections of intentional educational experiences, cross-cultural relationships, and One Health systems approaches. Her prominent areas of inquiry include industry-centered formal and nonformal educational experiences, integration of stakeholders into higher education, impacts of livestock systems in One Health and crisis communication contexts, identity research in agricultural contexts, and the advancement of intercultural relationships and collaborations for industry professionals and agricultural producers. Madison has also been heavily involved in collaborative teaching and Extension efforts. For example, she co-developed an international course collaboration with the University of Guelph – Ontario Agricultural College and the Streaming Science project for a student-driven podcast series, Sustainable Solutions: From Guelph to Gainesville (https://streamingscience.com/sustainable-solutions-from-guelph-to-gainesville/). She also designed an online professional course in policy communication in agriculture and natural resources contexts (https://piecenter.com/pie-academy/). Further, Madison has co-developed and co-led innovative professional development on artificial intelligence (AI) use in communication education, podcast production in scientific contexts for 4-H youth, and effective oral communication for 4-H dairy youth exhibition. Join us in welcoming Dr. Madison Dyment her contact email is madison.dyment@ufl.edu. |
COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SERVICE |
COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SERVICE |
Establishment of the Unoccupied Aircraft Systems Natural Resources (UAS-NR) Laboratory Unoccupied Aircraft Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, are revolutionizing the way we view and manage our land's resources. With a push of a button, they provide large-scale visualizations of water, soil, and vegetation characteristics while assessing the interactions of domestic and wild animals with these resources. In a single flight, drones can gather vast amounts of data with centimeter-level accuracy, offering an efficient and cost-effective solution for resource management. However, despite these technological advantages, proper training and support remain critical to ensuring drones are used in an effective and responsible manner. Recognizing this need, through the Cooperative Extension Service and the vision of Dr. Casey Spackman, the UAS Natural Resources Laboratory was established in 2024. The Laboratory provides hands-on training, educational materials, and assistance with certifications, while also offering access to drones, sensors, and data processing support. Its small but expanding drone fleet includes indoor quadcopters for safe flight training and larger, more advanced drones capable of carrying multiple camera payloads for research and extended missions. The Laboratory is pursuing certification for an herbicide application drone to address weed and brush control research needs of the state, further expanding its capabilities. Through these resources and initiatives, the NMSU ACES UAS Natural Resources Laboratory empowers researchers, educators, and students to leverage drone technologies, paving the way for innovative and sustainable natural resource management at New Mexico State University. For more information, contact Director Dr. Casey Spackman at spackman@nmsu.edu |
Establishment of the Unoccupied Aircraft Systems Natural Resources (UAS-NR) Laboratory Unoccupied Aircraft Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, are revolutionizing the way we view and manage our land's resources. With a push of a button, they provide large-scale visualizations of water, soil, and vegetation characteristics while assessing the interactions of domestic and wild animals with these resources. In a single flight, drones can gather vast amounts of data with centimeter-level accuracy, offering an efficient and cost-effective solution for resource management. However, despite these technological advantages, proper training and support remain critical to ensuring drones are used in an effective and responsible manner. Recognizing this need, through the Cooperative Extension Service and the vision of Dr. Casey Spackman, the UAS Natural Resources Laboratory was established in 2024. The Laboratory provides hands-on training, educational materials, and assistance with certifications, while also offering access to drones, sensors, and data processing support. Its small but expanding drone fleet includes indoor quadcopters for safe flight training and larger, more advanced drones capable of carrying multiple camera payloads for research and extended missions. The Laboratory is pursuing certification for an herbicide application drone to address weed and brush control research needs of the state, further expanding its capabilities. Through these resources and initiatives, the NMSU ACES UAS Natural Resources Laboratory empowers researchers, educators, and students to leverage drone technologies, paving the way for innovative and sustainable natural resource management at New Mexico State University. For more information, contact Director Dr. Casey Spackman at spackman@nmsu.edu |
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ENTOMOLOGY, PLANT PATHOLOGY, AND WEED SCIENCE |
ENTOMOLOGY, PLANT PATHOLOGY, AND WEED SCIENCE |
EPPWS faculty share their expertise in radio and trade magazines NMSU Extension Entomologist Dr. Joanie King was interviewed by Kaitlin Haase of the Xerces Society for “People, Plants, and Pollinators” on the Garden Journal, a project of the Santa Fe Extension Master Gardeners. The show gives listeners insight on the importance of pollinators and other arthropods. It is broadcasted each Saturday from 10:00 to 10:30 am on KSFR 101.1. The edition with Dr. King centered around misunderstood insects, wasps. Their biology and importance were discussed. You can listen to the episode at: https://www.ksfr.org/show/garden-journal-new/2024-12-21/12-21-2024-people-pollinators-and-plants-edition For more information about the Garden Journal, you can email at: gardenjournal@ksfr.org |
EPPWS faculty share their expertise in radio and trade magazines NMSU Extension Entomologist Dr. Joanie King was interviewed by Kaitlin Haase of the Xerces Society for “People, Plants, and Pollinators” on the Garden Journal, a project of the Santa Fe Extension Master Gardeners. The show gives listeners insight on the importance of pollinators and other arthropods. It is broadcasted each Saturday from 10:00 to 10:30 am on KSFR 101.1. The edition with Dr. King centered around misunderstood insects, wasps. Their biology and importance were discussed. You can listen to the episode at: https://www.ksfr.org/show/garden-journal-new/2024-12-21/12-21-2024-people-pollinators-and-plants-edition For more information about the Garden Journal, you can email at: gardenjournal@ksfr.org |
Kaitlin Haase across from Dr. Joanie King before the show was recorded. |
Kaitlin Haase across from Dr. Joanie King before the show was recorded. |
Associate Professor and Weed Scientist Dr. Erik Lehnhoff’s research on electric mulch for weed suppression was highlighted in John Deere’s latest issue of The Furrow (https://www.deere.com/en/publications/the-furrow/). |
Associate Professor and Weed Scientist Dr. Erik Lehnhoff’s research on electric mulch for weed suppression was highlighted in John Deere’s latest issue of The Furrow (https://www.deere.com/en/publications/the-furrow/). |
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| It briefly describes Dr. Lehnhoff’s investigation of a promising tool that is powered by solar panels to electrify mesh. This in turn interacts with germinating weeds that are suppressed through low-power electricity. Dr. Lehnhoff and project team member Dr. Leslie Beck (NMSU Extension Weed Specialist) continue to investigate how to refine this tool, compare its cost to other traditional weed management practices like herbicide applications and hand-weeding, and explore the impacts of the electric mulch beyond killing weeds. Dr. Lehnhoff’s research on electric mulch for weed management is supported through USDA and the Western IPM Center. View this video to hear more from Dr. Lehnhoff on this research https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Khu7LbpnxY For more information, contact Dr. Erik Lehnhoff at lehnhoff@nmsu.edu. |
It briefly describes Dr. Lehnhoff’s investigation of a promising tool that is powered by solar panels to electrify mesh. This in turn interacts with germinating weeds that are suppressed through low-power electricity. Dr. Lehnhoff and project team member Dr. Leslie Beck (NMSU Extension Weed Specialist) continue to investigate how to refine this tool, compare its cost to other traditional weed management practices like herbicide applications and hand-weeding, and explore the impacts of the electric mulch beyond killing weeds. Dr. Lehnhoff’s research on electric mulch for weed management is supported through USDA and the Western IPM Center. View this video to hear more from Dr. Lehnhoff on this research https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Khu7LbpnxY For more information, contact Dr. Erik Lehnhoff at lehnhoff@nmsu.edu. |
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FAMILY & CONSUMER SCIENCES |
FAMILY & CONSUMER SCIENCES |
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| Dr. Sergio Martinez-Monteagudo has been appointed as the Editor-in-Chief of the prestigious International Journal of Food Properties. This open-access, peer-reviewed journal focuses on publishing original research that explores the characterization and application of food properties. The editorial team defines food properties as measurable and quantifiable features observed during the handling, processing, distribution, and storage of food, including downstream processing and upcycling. The journal encourages innovative contributions that enhance the understanding and measurement of food properties, fostering advancements in all areas of food science and technology. Congratulations to Dr. Martinez-Monteagudo on this well-deserved recognition! Explore more about the International Journal of Food Properties at Learn about International Journal of Food Properties |
Dr. Sergio Martinez-Monteagudo has been appointed as the Editor-in-Chief of the prestigious International Journal of Food Properties. This open-access, peer-reviewed journal focuses on publishing original research that explores the characterization and application of food properties. The editorial team defines food properties as measurable and quantifiable features observed during the handling, processing, distribution, and storage of food, including downstream processing and upcycling. The journal encourages innovative contributions that enhance the understanding and measurement of food properties, fostering advancements in all areas of food science and technology. Congratulations to Dr. Martinez-Monteagudo on this well-deserved recognition! Explore more about the International Journal of Food Properties at Learn about International Journal of Food Properties |
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INNOVATIVE MEDIA, RESEARCH & EXTENSION |
INNOVATIVE MEDIA, RESEARCH & EXTENSION |
6.9 million uses of ACES IMRE multimedia products in 2024 In 2024, educational video games, web tools, videos, animations, and mobile apps built by NMSU Innovative Media Research and Extension department were accessed almost 7 million times, including 4.1 million plays of interactive modules and educational games, 2.3 million views on YouTube, and 390,700 app downloads. Top-performing products include public health and food safety games for youth (OutbreakSquad.org and ThemeParkKitchen.org), math games and animations (MathSnacks.org); irrigation water testing and technology resources (conserve.nmsu.edu and irrigation.nmsu.edu); and videos showcasing research on biochar, chile, irrigation, and cover crops. The team is proud to note the growing popularity of the web tool Selected Plants of Navajo Rangelands (NavajoRange.nmsu.edu), which was accessed 82,590 times in 2024 (almost four times more often than in 2023). The tool provides a searchable plant database with plant names in spoken and written Navajo/Diné as well as in English. It was developed in collaboration with Gerald Moore, former Coordinating Extension Agent of Navajo Tri-State Federally Recognized Tribal Extension Program (now retired). |
6.9 million uses of ACES IMRE multimedia products in 2024 In 2024, educational video games, web tools, videos, animations, and mobile apps built by NMSU Innovative Media Research and Extension department were accessed almost 7 million times, including 4.1 million plays of interactive modules and educational games, 2.3 million views on YouTube, and 390,700 app downloads. Top-performing products include public health and food safety games for youth (OutbreakSquad.org and ThemeParkKitchen.org), math games and animations (MathSnacks.org); irrigation water testing and technology resources (conserve.nmsu.edu and irrigation.nmsu.edu); and videos showcasing research on biochar, chile, irrigation, and cover crops. The team is proud to note the growing popularity of the web tool Selected Plants of Navajo Rangelands (NavajoRange.nmsu.edu), which was accessed 82,590 times in 2024 (almost four times more often than in 2023). The tool provides a searchable plant database with plant names in spoken and written Navajo/Diné as well as in English. It was developed in collaboration with Gerald Moore, former Coordinating Extension Agent of Navajo Tri-State Federally Recognized Tribal Extension Program (now retired). |
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Sam Steel Society welcomes 127 new inductees On December 13, 2024, we inducted 89 undergraduate and 38 graduate-level graduates of the College of ACES into the Sam Steel Society, charging them to use their knowledge and skills to change the world. |
Sam Steel Society welcomes 127 new inductees On December 13, 2024, we inducted 89 undergraduate and 38 graduate-level graduates of the College of ACES into the Sam Steel Society, charging them to use their knowledge and skills to change the world. |
Sam Steel Council Elections We are pleased to welcome Tyler DuBry '19 and Nick Frazzini '15 as new Councilors beginning their 2-year term in January 2025. Additionally, we are excited to announce the election of new Sam Steel Council officers to lead the organization during the 2025-2026 term. |
Sam Steel Council Elections We are pleased to welcome Tyler DuBry '19 and Nick Frazzini '15 as new Councilors beginning their 2-year term in January 2025. Additionally, we are excited to announce the election of new Sam Steel Council officers to lead the organization during the 2025-2026 term. |
Pictured left to right: Anthony Chavez, Christine Trujillo, Treasurer – Kelsi Cureton, Past President – Jennifer Ryder Fox, President – Fayth Franzoy Gillespie, Vice President – Andrea Arrigucci and Nicholas Frazzini |
Pictured left to right: Anthony Chavez, Christine Trujillo, Treasurer – Kelsi Cureton, Past President – Jennifer Ryder Fox, President – Fayth Franzoy Gillespie, Vice President – Andrea Arrigucci and Nicholas Frazzini |
After Fest – an Aggie Mixer Join the Sam Steel Society, legislators, and fellow Aggies across the agriculture industry for karaoke night at Box Car in Santa Fe on February 5, 2025, 8:30 PM, Box Car (133 W Water Street, Santa Fe). |
After Fest – an Aggie Mixer Join the Sam Steel Society, legislators, and fellow Aggies across the agriculture industry for karaoke night at Box Car in Santa Fe on February 5, 2025, 8:30 PM, Box Car (133 W Water Street, Santa Fe). |
SCHOOL OF HOTEL, RESTAURANT & TOURISM MANAGEMENT |
SCHOOL OF HOTEL, RESTAURANT & TOURISM MANAGEMENT |
HRTM Kicks off the Spring 2025 semester strong The School of Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Management is entering the new semester with much to celebrate! We were happy to conclude the semester with attending the annual Greater Albuquerque Hotel and Lodging Association (GAHLA) holiday and scholarship lunch. Four undergraduate students and one international graduate student received scholarships and were acknowledged for their ambition and academic and professional accomplishments. In the new year, three of our graduate students attended the Graduate Student Education and Research Conference in Hospitality and Tourism at the Conrad Hilton College of Global Hospitality Leadership in Houston, TX. Each of them presented posters and were able to network and learn from fellow industry researchers and educators. If you would like to meet and are seeking to hire our amazing students and alumni for your business, we are also looking forward to our annual HRTM and ACES Career Fair set for February 20, 2025 at the Las Cruces Convention Center. Register now at https://hrtm.nmsu.edu/employment/fair.html. There is still much to look forward to as we confirm details for our Spring 2025 events including the return of 100 West Café lunches, TAP Happy Hour, Community Beverage Presentation and our Annual Chef Artist dinner. Dates and ticket information will be available soon! |
HRTM Kicks off the Spring 2025 semester strong The School of Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Management is entering the new semester with much to celebrate! We were happy to conclude the semester with attending the annual Greater Albuquerque Hotel and Lodging Association (GAHLA) holiday and scholarship lunch. Four undergraduate students and one international graduate student received scholarships and were acknowledged for their ambition and academic and professional accomplishments. In the new year, three of our graduate students attended the Graduate Student Education and Research Conference in Hospitality and Tourism at the Conrad Hilton College of Global Hospitality Leadership in Houston, TX. Each of them presented posters and were able to network and learn from fellow industry researchers and educators. If you would like to meet and are seeking to hire our amazing students and alumni for your business, we are also looking forward to our annual HRTM and ACES Career Fair set for February 20, 2025 at the Las Cruces Convention Center. Register now at https://hrtm.nmsu.edu/employment/fair.html. There is still much to look forward to as we confirm details for our Spring 2025 events including the return of 100 West Café lunches, TAP Happy Hour, Community Beverage Presentation and our Annual Chef Artist dinner. Dates and ticket information will be available soon! |
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The journal Agricultural Water Management Irrigated agriculture throughout New Mexico and much of the western United States relies on water resources that are under increasing stress from more frequent and severe droughts, reduced snowpack, and changes in the timing of runoff. Much of the water used for irrigation in this region passes through lands managed by irrigation organizations. However, little work has been published to date describing economic effects from alternative irrigation water trading arrangements for adapting to drought and climate change. The contribution of this work is to fill a gap in previous research by assessing the economic performance of various water trading arrangements for adapting to water shortages. We secured U.S. Department of Agriculture data on irrigation water use patterns in the central part of the Rio Grande Basin of New Mexico to support formulation of a model predicting water use patterns to assess impacts on farm income associated with a range of water shortages and water trading arrangements for adapting to these shortages. Model results show that unlimited water trading minimizes farm income lost from shortages, while a more limited geographic scope for trading also moderates farm income losses. Among the three shortage sharing methods considered, a proportional sharing of shortages with no trading produces the greatest loss in farm income for adapting to shortage. These findings suggest that water trading arrangements have an important role to play in adapting to water supply changes. Our results provide science-informed guidance to water managers, stakeholders, and policymakers tasked with discovering efficient water shortage adaptation plans for New Mexico and arid and semi-arid irrigation regions internationally. This article is titled “Agricultural Water Management in the Western United States: A Search for Efficient Climate Adaptation Institutions.” To view the entire article, click on the following link: Managing agricultural water use in the Western United States: A search for efficient climate adaptation institutions - ScienceDirect Please contact Frank A. Ward at fward@nmsu.edu for more information. |
The journal Agricultural Water Management Irrigated agriculture throughout New Mexico and much of the western United States relies on water resources that are under increasing stress from more frequent and severe droughts, reduced snowpack, and changes in the timing of runoff. Much of the water used for irrigation in this region passes through lands managed by irrigation organizations. However, little work has been published to date describing economic effects from alternative irrigation water trading arrangements for adapting to drought and climate change. The contribution of this work is to fill a gap in previous research by assessing the economic performance of various water trading arrangements for adapting to water shortages. We secured U.S. Department of Agriculture data on irrigation water use patterns in the central part of the Rio Grande Basin of New Mexico to support formulation of a model predicting water use patterns to assess impacts on farm income associated with a range of water shortages and water trading arrangements for adapting to these shortages. Model results show that unlimited water trading minimizes farm income lost from shortages, while a more limited geographic scope for trading also moderates farm income losses. Among the three shortage sharing methods considered, a proportional sharing of shortages with no trading produces the greatest loss in farm income for adapting to shortage. These findings suggest that water trading arrangements have an important role to play in adapting to water supply changes. Our results provide science-informed guidance to water managers, stakeholders, and policymakers tasked with discovering efficient water shortage adaptation plans for New Mexico and arid and semi-arid irrigation regions internationally. This article is titled “Agricultural Water Management in the Western United States: A Search for Efficient Climate Adaptation Institutions.” To view the entire article, click on the following link: Managing agricultural water use in the Western United States: A search for efficient climate adaptation institutions - ScienceDirect Please contact Frank A. Ward at fward@nmsu.edu for more information. |
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Rio Grande Watershed, North America |
Rio Grande Watershed, North America |
Conservationists and nature defenders who passed away in 2024 |
Conservationists and nature defenders who passed away in 2024 |
In 2024, the world mourned the loss of many dedicated conservationists, Indigenous leaders, and environmentalists. These individuals devoted their lives to preserving the planet’s biodiversity, protecting vulnerable communities, and advocating for justice amid profound challenges. Though each had a distinct journey, they shared a deep commitment to the environment, often working on the frontlines of conservation or battling entrenched systems of exploitation. Among those remembered was Dr. Matthew Gompper, a valued member of our college community, as highlighted in Mongabay news. |
In 2024, the world mourned the loss of many dedicated conservationists, Indigenous leaders, and environmentalists. These individuals devoted their lives to preserving the planet’s biodiversity, protecting vulnerable communities, and advocating for justice amid profound challenges. Though each had a distinct journey, they shared a deep commitment to the environment, often working on the frontlines of conservation or battling entrenched systems of exploitation. Among those remembered was Dr. Matthew Gompper, a valued member of our college community, as highlighted in Mongabay news. |
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| Matthew Gompper (U.S.) Matthew Gompper, a wildlife ecologist and Head of the Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Ecology at New Mexico State University, died on March 26th. His career spanned decades of research on mammals, wildlife diseases, and the intricate dynamics of ecosystems across the globe. Born in New York, Gompper’s academic journey spans several roles before he joined New Mexico State University in 2019. Along the way he developed a reputation for intellectual rigor, collaborative spirit, and an unrelenting curiosity about the natural world. |
Matthew Gompper (U.S.) Matthew Gompper, a wildlife ecologist and Head of the Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Ecology at New Mexico State University, died on March 26th. His career spanned decades of research on mammals, wildlife diseases, and the intricate dynamics of ecosystems across the globe. Born in New York, Gompper’s academic journey spans several roles before he joined New Mexico State University in 2019. Along the way he developed a reputation for intellectual rigor, collaborative spirit, and an unrelenting curiosity about the natural world. |
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Gompper’s research took him from the Adirondacks of New York to the grasslands of India, the Brazilian Pantanal, and the Terai of Nepal. His work examined how resource subsidies shape predator populations, how parasites interact with their hosts, and how species distribution is influenced by ecological pressures. He was particularly known for his studies on feral dogs and their ecological impacts. A mentor, scholar, and adventurer, Gompper left behind a legacy of scientific contributions and global fieldwork, enriching the field of wildlife ecology. To read the full article, click on the following link: Conservationists and nature defenders who died in 2024 |
Gompper’s research took him from the Adirondacks of New York to the grasslands of India, the Brazilian Pantanal, and the Terai of Nepal. His work examined how resource subsidies shape predator populations, how parasites interact with their hosts, and how species distribution is influenced by ecological pressures. He was particularly known for his studies on feral dogs and their ecological impacts. A mentor, scholar, and adventurer, Gompper left behind a legacy of scientific contributions and global fieldwork, enriching the field of wildlife ecology. To read the full article, click on the following link: Conservationists and nature defenders who died in 2024 |
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. |
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. |
COLLEGE OF ACES MAGAZINE – FALL 2024 ISSUE |
COLLEGE OF ACES MAGAZINE – FALL 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. |
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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