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University of Illinois working to modernize extension outreach

Digitizing the communication of data and relaying ideas between researchers, farmers and consumers are topics Dr. Anthony Studer at the University of Illinois Department of Crop Sciences says need more attention.

“The more we can effectively communicate the benefits of these technologies and the safety of these technologies, I think people will see solutions to the problems we will be facing as a nation and a globe when it comes to feeding people in a changing climate.”

Studer is awaiting the approval of a USDA grant that would allow him and his team to live stream research in the fields- making it more transparent.

“It focuses on the idea of extension, but digitizing it.”

Studer says better communication of research between all parties could help alleviate issues agriculture is facing today like the volatility of Dicamba. Earmarked funding for extension in the recent Farm Bill shows improved extension outreach is a nationwide concern.

Brownfield interviewed Studer at the University of Illinois Crop Management Conference in Mt. Vernon, Illinois.