Howdy,

Since January, Texas A&M AgriLife Research has made significant strides across a range of scientific and agricultural disciplines, further strengthening its reputation as a leader in innovative research and impactful outreach. 

This newsletter highlights some notable accomplishments during this period, demonstrating the organization’s commitment to advancing sustainable agriculture, improving health, and fostering economic development in Texas and beyond. 

I extend my deepest gratitude to all faculty and staff members for your unwavering commitment and dedication to the mission of our organization. Your efforts continue to make a profound impact on enhancing the resiliency of our food, feed, and fiber systems, and improving our natural resources. Every day, your work helps shape a sustainable future for our communities and the world beyond.

Leading innovation and discovery in 2026

In just under half a year, AgriLife Research has achieved remarkable milestones in crop genetics, production systems, and resiliency of our food system. 

Our scientists developed and field-tested drought- and heat-tolerant varieties of wheat, cotton, and sorghum, along with gene-editing technologies to boost disease resistance and reduce environmental impact. Intelligent agricultural practices have led to reduced water, fertilizer, and pesticide use, benefiting the environment and farm profitability. Similarly, advances in management and genetics, and use of sustainable grazing practices, are demonstrably improving livestock industry productivity and resilience.

Meanwhile, in water conservation, AgriLife Research scientists developed drought-resilient plants and efficient irrigation tools alongside studies to protect water quality through buffer zones and cover cropping. Technological advancements in AI, remote sensing, and data science enabled precise monitoring and decision-making for crops and livestock, ushering in data-driven intelligent agricultural systems.

Spreading expertise across Texas, the U.S. and the world

Throughout 2026, faculty and student researchers have published in leading scientific journals and presented at major conferences, further raising the profile of Texas A&M as a center of agricultural excellence. Many of our faculty, staff, and students will be traveling across the globe to share their work, which will no doubt highlight the global impact we are creating. 

The accomplishments of AgriLife Research since January reflect a dynamic and forward-thinking organization that addresses the most pressing challenges in agriculture, environmental stewardship, public health, and community development.

Through scientific innovation, strategic partnerships, and a steadfast commitment to service, AgriLife Research continues to shape a more resilient and sustainable future for Texas and the world.

Gig 'em!

Progress continues on several AgriLife Research construction projects: 

• A ribbon cutting ceremony on April 7 marked the opening of the Texas A&M AgriLife High Plains Research and Extension Center in Canyon.
• A groundbreaking ceremony on May 4 launched construction of the Meat Science and Technology Center.
• The greenhouse project at the Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center at Dallas has initiated design.
• The AgriTech Innovation Hub at the AgriLife Research station in McGregor has initiated design. 
• The Texas A&M University System has almost completed the design process for the Research and Innovation Building at Texas A&M Fort Worth. This project will be up for construction approval by the Board of Regents in May.
• The AgriLife Research building at the Texas A&M University Higher Education Center in McAllen has initiated design.
• Texas A&M University has approved the Department of Poultry Science to initiate a plan for a new Research and Teaching facility.