Agricultural Sciences Faculty Secure Funding for Sorghum Drought Research

Dr. Sushil Thapa and Dr. Bridget Guerrero in the Department of Agricultural Sciences have received research funding from the United Sorghum Checkoff Program to investigate the potential of mycorrhizal seed treatments to enhance grain sorghum resilience and productivity under the water-limited conditions of the Texas Panhandle.

The project aims to better understand how plant-microbe partnerships can help sorghum tolerate drought and improve performance in increasingly challenging growing environments.

"Drought and water scarcity are major challenges in this region, especially with the ongoing decline of the Ogallala Aquifer," said Dr. Thapa. "Even relatively drought tolerant crops like sorghum are increasingly affected by moderate to server water stress. Our project tests practical, science-based strategies to improve water use efficiency (WUE), plant stress tolerance and, ultimately, yields."

Dr. Guerrero emphasized the importance of the work for producers in the region.

"This trial will provide insights on how mycorrhizal fungi influence water and nutrient use, helping farmers make informed management decisions and evaluate the potential economic benefits of these practices in water-limited areas," Guerrero said.

Field trials will begin in summer 2026, when researchers will test several strains of mycorrhizal inoculants in grain sorghum. These beneficial fungi form a symbiotic relationship with plant roots and extend hyphae that function as virtual root systems, helping plants absorb water and nutrients more efficiently, enhancing stress tolerance, and potentially improving yields.

The research supports ongoing effort to develop sustainable, science-based solutions for crop production in the Texas Panhandle and other regions facing water limitations.

Graduate Student Earns Top Honors at High Plains Dairy Conference

Christie Miller, a graduate student in the Paul Engler College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences at West Texas A&M University, recently represented WT at the High Plains Dairy Conference, where she presented her research in the graduate student research poster competition.

The competition featured 12 graduate students from four universities, including both master's and doctoral candidates. Miller's poster stood out among the field, earning first place for her outstanding research presentation.

The High Plains Dairy Conference brings together researchers, industry leaders, and students to discuss innovations and challenges in the dairy industry across the region. Miller's success highlights the strength of graduate research at WT and the opportunities students have to share their work with a broader agricultural land scientific community.

Her accomplishment reflects the continued impact of WT graduate students in advancing research that supports the dairy industry and agriculture across the High Plains.

Student Honored at USDA Science Influencers Research Symposium

Summer Bowman, a student in the Paul Engler College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, recently earned first place in the People's Choice Research Presentation Award at the USDA Science Influencers 5th Annual Research Symposium in College Station.

Bowman delivered an oral presentation highlighting her experience in a semester-long horticultural internship and undergraduate research project conducted under the mentorship of Kylie Diaz, M.S. Her research examined the stomatal conductance of multiple rose cultivars under intense pest herbivory, exploring how ornamental plants respond to stress caused by insect damage.

The project contributes to a growing understanding of water use and recovery dynamics in ornamental plants, particularly under environmental conditions common to the Texas Panhandle.

WT Agriculture Well Represented at International Livestock Congress

Students, alumni, and leadership from the Paul Engler College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences were well represented at the International Livestock Congress in Houston, highlighting the continued impact of West Texas A&M University within the industry.

Ryan Heitschmidt, '24 and current master's student, was recognized as a Student Fellow.

Paige Holbrooks, '22 and '24 alumna, currently serves as the Executive Director of the International Livestock Congress.

Kaslyn Moczygemba, and agricultural media and communication major, served as a media intern.

Additionally, Dr. Kevin Pond, continues to support the event through his role on the International Livestock Congress Board of Directors.

Together, the participation of WT students, alumni, and leadership reflects the university's strong connection to the industry and its commitment to preparing leaders who contribute to agriculture at both the national and global levels.

Horticulture Students Contribute Floral Designs to Natural Sciences Gala

On March 6, horticulture students involved in the program's experiential floral initiative played a key role in preparing floral arrangements for the Natural Sciences Gala.

As part of the event preparation, students designed a coordinated three-vase composition that showcased both technical skill and artistic creativity. Beargrass was incorporated as a linear element, thoughtfully manipulated to connect the arrangements and create a sense of unity, rhythm, and visual flow across each table.

The students' contributions not only enhanced the visual experience of the event but also provided valuable hands-on learning, reinforcing principles of floral design and supporting a meaningful cause.

Dr. Kieth Leads Dinner Etiquette Training for Hereford Women's Group

Dr. Kieth recently conducted a dinner etiquette training session for members of the L'Allegra Study Club in Hereford, providing guidance on professional dining etiquette and social protocol.

The training offered practical instruction on dining manners, table settings, and professional etiquette. These skills help build confidence in both social and professional settings.

The L'Allegra Study Club, established in 1946 by a group of doctors' wives, has long been dedicated to serving and improving the Hereford community. The organization's objective is threefold: to study topics of interest to its members, carry out projects of civil and social improvement, and promote fellowship among members. The club's motto, "Mind Employed is Mind Enjoyed," reflects its commitment to learning and community engagement.

The dinner etiquette training supported the club's mission by providing an opportunity for members to learn practical skills while strengthening fellowship within the group.

#ICYMI

In Case You Missed It

WT Meat Judging Claims Team Championship at 2026 HLSR Contest

Connect with COANS!

Buff Brief | buffbrief@wtamu.edu | (806) 651- 3570