Dr. Ram Ray on the farm with workshop participantsA team of more than 30 students, research scientists, extension personnel, and faculty members from the College of Agriculture and Human Sciences successfully conducted the Leafy Greens Workshop: From Farm to Table on Thursday, February 15, 2018. This was an opportunity to showcase the land-grant program in action through the research activities of students working with mentor scientists, outreach programs designed by extension personnel, and faculty teaching skills in the area of crop production, food safety, nutrition, and culinary arts. The workshop was divided into different themes to answer questions regarding various aspects of the linkage from farm to table. Presentations covered relevant topics beginning with how to grow leafy greens using organic amendments and the soil-plant-water relationship to nurture growth. In addition, expert speakers addressed the environmental impact of organic amendments such as nutrient uptake and leaching, soil carbon dioxide emission, water uptake and drainage. Lastly, the workshop closed with a discussion about food safety, market opportunities, the nutritional value and health benefits, and preparation and tasting of recipes made with leafy greens. All presentations can be viewed here for more detailed information.  

More than 80 people participated in the workshop. A program evaluation completed at the workshop revealed:

  • 81% of participants increased their level of understanding in “crop germination” and “postharvest quality of collard greens.”
  • 73% of participants indicated that they would definitely increase leafy green vegetable consumption.
  • 60% of participants responded that they would definitely use conservation practices.
  • 67% of participants were mostly to completely satisfied with the workshop.

The CAHS will continue strengthening its effort to conduct multidisciplinary research and disseminate the research findings at similar workshops. Farmers and other stakeholders will benefit from the results of this project through published extension bulletins and peer reviewed journals shared on multiple media platforms.

More photos from the workshop can be found here.

Ripendra Awal
Ripendra Awal, Ph.D.
Research Scientist, Natural Resources and Environmental Systems Research
(936) 261-5092
riawal@pvamu.edu

 


 

Dr. Ali Fares
Ali Fares, Ph.D.
Interim Dean and Director of Land-Grant Programs
(936) 261-5019
alfares@pvamu.edu