ACADEMIC
KSU/CA/AGRON
The Department of Agronomy, together with the Research and Extension Centers, provides statewide leadership for teaching, research, and extension activities in plant breeding, crop production, range science, soil science, and weed sciences and contributes substantially to activities in genetics, water science, and environmental sciences. Undergraduate teaching activities in agronomy prepare students to effectively serve agriculture, related industries, and society. Students are provided a sound professional and scientific foundation; a broad education for constructive living in the community, state, and nation; and effective advising and extracurricular activities to develop leadership skills. Graduate instruction emphasizes knowledge and skills for research and applications within the many specialties that constitute agronomy, and produces skilled scientists, educators, and administrators for industry, government, university, and international service. Research in agronomy identifies the basic biological, chemical, and physical principles that govern our disciplines. This knowledge is applied to integrated soil tillage, improved varieties and hybrids, optimum management of nutrients, water, and residue, and pest/weed control into sustainable, efficient production systems that conserve resources and protect environmental quality. Agronomy extension specialists conduct educational programs based upon sound agronomic principles and practices for farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses that result in: (1) more efficient production, (2) increased economic returns, (3) conservation of natural resources, and (4) protection of the environment. Extension specialists bring departmental research findings to the crop and rangeland industry of Kansas. The successful integration of instruction, research, and extension in crop, range, soil, and weed management at Kansas State University has made Kansas one of the leading agricultural states in the United States. These efforts must be continued to increase the profitability of Kansas agriculture and to improve the livelihood of all Kansans. Website: "http://www.oznet.ksu.edu/agronomy/" [Summary provided by Kansas State University.]