Progress 06/01/20 to 05/31/24
Outputs
Target Audience:The central target audience of this project was our students. We cast a wide net for student recruitment to attract a diverse nationwide applicant pool. We have summarized student demographics below. Total Students 2021-2023: 39 Previous REEU experience among students 2021-2023: No REEU Experience - 37 Previous REEU Experience - 2 Gender of students 2021-2023: Female - 27 Male - 10 Nonbinary - 2 Race & Ethnicity 2021-2023: Single race/ethnicity selected: American Indian or Alaska Native - 2 Asian - 1 Black or African American - 15 Hispanic or Latine - 6 White - 12 Multiple race/ethnicity selected: Asian & White - 1 Black or African American & American Indian or Alaska Native - 1 Hispanic or Latine & White - 1 School Class at time of application 2021-2023: First Years - 7 Sophomores - 9 Juniors - 20 First Semester Seniors - 3 GPA 2021-2023: Mean = 3.52, Min = 2.5, Max = 4.0, Median = 3.67 List of Majors 2021-2023: Agribusiness Agribusiness and Food Industry Management Agricultural and Environmental Systems Agricultural Economics Agriculture, concentration in Plant and Soil Sciences American Studies, Art Animal Science Animal, Poultry, and Veterinary Sciences (2) Apparel & Merchandising, Concentration: Apparel Production and Design Applied Biotechnology Biochemistry Biology (5) Biology, Public Health Business Agriculture Community & International Development Community Entrepreneurship Computer Information Systems and Business Administration Earth, Society, and Environmental Sustainability Environmental Science Environmental Studies (2) Environmental Studies, Natural Resource Science Equine Science General Studies Landscape & Horticulture Nutrition and Food Science Plant Science, concentration in Biotechnology Public Communications Sociology Studio Art Sustainability Sciences (2) Sustainable Design Urban Forestry and Natural Resources List of colleges and universities 2021-2023: Cedar Crest College Colorado State University Florida International University Fort Valley State University Furman University (2) Hamilton College Ithaca College Kenyon College (2) Los Angeles Mission College Merritt College Mount Saint Mary's University North Carolina A&T State University (2) Nueta Hidatsa Sahnish College Oakwood University Prairie View A&M University Southern University A&M College (4) Stillman College Tohono O'odham Community College (2) Tuskegee University (3) University of Georgia University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (2) University of Massachusetts Amherst (3) University of Vermont (5) Changes/Problems:The onset of COVID-19 coincided with the REEU award in 2019, prompting us to postpone recruitment activities for the 2020 cohort due to safety concerns and evolving university policies. As the pandemic persisted, university policy prohibited on-campus summer housing, suspended food services, and limited off-campus visitors. For 2021, we submitted an exception request to UVM administration for the REEU and were granted use of campus facilities to support the project. However, limited campus services necessitated coordinating student housing and food services with outside vendors. While student interest in the program provided a pool of prospective fellows, many opted out or requested deferment. We filled the cohort with one late dropout before booking flight accommodations. Field trips were limited to university research facilities, and most stakeholder engagements took place through online video conferencing. Stakeholder presentations and the cohort's final presentations to the stakeholder group also pivoted to online videoconferencing. In 2022, we faced greater difficulty forming a cohort, with a notable decline in applicants and several declinations due to the ongoing pandemic. We had 12 students committed; however, one student contracted COVID-19 and did not travel to UVM, resulting in a cohort of 11. We secured an exception for on-campus summer housing and limited dining options. Again, many of the stakeholder field trips were conducted virtually due to strict health and safety protocols. The concluding event was transitioned to an online video conference. In 2023, we saw a return to normalcy with on-campus summer research activities and an increase in the applicant pool. Most of the declines were due to some students receiving competing summer research offers. Many stakeholder engagements returned to on-site field trips and in-person presentations, while we offered online video conferencing for the final presentations to the stakeholders. The 2023 cohort was unable to present at the Industrial Hemp Conference as it did not occur in 2024 due to extenuating circumstances unrelated to this REEU program. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?The project provided students with a comprehensive, hands-on learning experience spanning from basic research to commercialization. Throughout the program, participants worked closely with mentors, gaining expertise across various aspects of industrial hemp research and development. We held workshops on Transition Design and Design Thinking to develop collaboration and data analysis skills. In the laboratory, students gathered and tested soil samples, assessed hemp varieties, processed fibers, and converted biomaterial into prototypes. They also designed and conducted consumer surveys, analyzing the data to understand market potential. Field experiences included visits to regional farms, processing facilities, and retail outlets, where students interacted with industry professionals and gained exposure to various scales of hemp production. Through these diverse activities, participants developed a wide range of skills, including proficiency in data collection and analysis, practical experience in hemp cultivation and processing, problem-solving and innovation capabilities, effective stakeholder communication, and market research competencies. The project successfully combined elements of agriculture, design, business, and social sciences, providing students with a unique, interdisciplinary research experience. As a result, participants emerged with a deep understanding of the industrial hemp industry and its potential impact on sustainable agriculture and regional economies, well-prepared for future academic pursuits or careers in this growing field. Key outcomes: Student experiences and accomplishments The evaluation team designed two program participant evaluation components for use over the three program years. These included pre and post participation surveys and post-participation focus groups. The pre and post surveys assessed aspects of personal learning and growth including skills development in group presentation, effective written communication, data visualization, collaboration, ability to lead and follow, quantitative skills, designing, implementing and reporting on research, and interpersonal communication. In year one, students' average responses showed skills development in 11 of 14 areas. One skill saw no change and two skills- note taking and independent work- were reported to have declined. In year two- students reported overall skills development in 12 of 14 skills areas with the greatest improvements reported for: presentations to a group, conducting interviews, designing research methodology, synthesizing findings, and understanding quantitative data. The focus groups incorporated feedback on programmatic and logistical components like time spent on various components, the program schedule and itinerary, and experience with housing and meals during the program. We used year one focus group findings to adjust the program in subsequent years. Students felt the program description was vague and were unsure of what to expect before they arrived. Students sought more field and lab time, and more time with community stakeholders. Generally, they wanted the program duration to be longer. And some reported feeling overwhelmed by the number of lectures. Additional focus group findings of interest included: Students felt they would not have found this opportunity anywhere else. Students sought greater interactions with other learning tracts. They would have liked more learning focused on the historical contexts and conditions related to cannabis and hemp. This opportunity empowered students by building a community around a subject area that is often taboo and/or not explored at their institutions of higher learning. Broader Effects Through engaging in research activities, students developed a strong understanding and appreciation for an interdisciplinary design thinking approach to agricultural transition. The success of the design thinking approach in this project led to its adoption for future projects in the Community Development and Extension departments at UVM. This project also strengthened collaborations and partnerships across the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and UVM Extension. The program also was successful at building social capital between community partners and participants. Ongoing relationships were established between community partners, UVM, and students, leading to potential internships. Several past students secured employment or internships at organizations and businesses addressing components of the agricultural transition, including production, value addition, plant science, and community economic development. Additionally, constituents from rural communities became more engaged in discussions about agricultural transition and its potential benefits. Through ongoing mentoring/correspondence, several students have reached out for letters of recommendation to support application for summer internship/fellowship opportunities. This resulted in 3 internships; 1 internship with a natural fiber textile micro-mill located in Vermont, 1 internship with the National Forest Service and 1 for a USDA REEU at another academic institution. Four students requested letters of recommendation for employment; 1 at the USDA ARS in Colorado, 1 at the USDA ARS in California, 2 with agricultural-related private industry. 4 students requested letters of recommendation to support graduate school admission into agriculture-related master's programs. From a recent inquiry of the 38 total participants, 5 are current MS students in agriculture related disciplines, 1 is a current PhD candidate in an agriculture related discipline, and 8 graduated with undergrad degrees and are employed in related industries. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?We held public stakeholder presentations each year of the project (2021, 2022, 2023). We also presented at the UVM Extension Northwest Crop and Soils Industrial Hemp Conference in 2022 and 2023. Additionally, we hosted a demonstration at UVM Extension Northwest Crop and Soils Annual Field Day at Borderview Farm, Alburgh, VT all three years of the project (2021, 2022, 2023). What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?
Nothing Reported
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Major activities: Interdisciplinary learning: Students explored agricultural sustainability and community development through a transdisciplinary approach, combining elements of agriculture, engineering, business, and social sciences. Skill development: Participants acquired transferable skills related to basic research, agronomics, processing, opportunity recognition, problem-solving, prototyping, and commercialization. Field experiences: Students visited regional farms, processing facilities, and retail outlets, gaining exposure to various scales of industrial hemp production. Laboratory work: Participants conducted soil testing, assessed hemp varieties, analyzed soil microbiome in plots, processed biomaterial, and prototyped bioproducts. Consumer research: Students designed, collected, analyzed, and reported consumer data related to hemp products and production. Collaborative learning: The project emphasized collaboration and communication skills through workshops and small group research activities. Industry exposure: Participants interacted with farmers, processors, manufacturers, and retailers, gaining comprehensive knowledge of the industrial hemp industry. Innovation and design: Students were exposed to transition design and design thinking methods, enhancing their problem-solving and framing skills. Data analysis and visualization: Participants developed skills in collecting, analyzing, and visualizing data related to industrial hemp production and market potential. Data collection: Farmers Market Surveys In each year of the REEU program, students participated in the design, implementation, analysis and reporting of a consumer knowledge and attitudes study about hemp and hemp products. We trained students each year in on-site convenience sampling processes and techniques. Emphasis areas included site selection and on-site oversight processes, how to (randomly) select potential participants in a public space, and how to approach and interact with potential participants. We deployed the survey at the Burlington farmer's market on the second Saturday of each program year. Students in the economics program track analyzed the results using Excel and SPSS. The study identified overall positive attitudes and interest in hemp products among those surveyed, indicating potential for market growth in this sector. Demographics were not a significant factor in interest in hemp products. Age, gender, and income level did not show consistent correlations with attitudes towards hemp products. This suggests that interest in hemp products spans across various demographic groups. Search preferences, on the other hand, did matter: There was a significant relationship between search preferences and interest in certain hemp products. This highlights the importance of marketing and product discoverability in influencing consumer interest. This research provides valuable initial insights into consumer attitudes towards hemp products, suggesting a generally positive reception and highlighting the importance of marketing and education in shaping consumer perceptions and interest. Our findings demonstrated a need for increased public education and information about hemp products to drive awareness and adoption. Hemp producers can use these insights to inform product development and marketing strategies. While informative, weacknowledge the need for further research to generalize findings to a larger population. Our research in Vermont did lead to student interest in replicating this research at home institutions in other states. Agricultural Production These laboratory experiences provided students with hands-on exposure to various techniques used in studying hemp plants, soil microbiomes, and plant-microbe interactions. These included: ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay): Used to detect viruses like Arabis mosaic and Nepo virus in hemp leaf samples Results for Hawaiian Haze samples were mostly negative (healthy), except for one leaf sample showing slight virus presence Soil Microbiome Analysis: Soil samples collected from research plots DNA isolation and purification through physical, mechanical, and chemical lysis EcoPlate analysis to determine Average Metabolic Rate (AMR) and Community Metabolic Diversity (CMD) Phyllosphere Scouting and Sampling: Identification of visible pests and disease signs on hemp varieties Collection of affected leaves for further analysis Plating and UV testing to detect presence of microorganisms, including Pseudomonas Fluorescence Mycorrhizae Microscopy: Study of symbiotic fungi that enhance plant nutrient uptake Observation of two types: Arbuscular Mycorrhizae and Ectomycorrhizae Examination of their structures and interactions with plant cells The studies encompassed virus detection, soil analysis, pest and disease identification, and microscopic examination of beneficial fungi, offering a comprehensive view of factors affecting hemp production. Design and prototyping with biomaterial Industrial hemp offers two types of fibers for bio-product prototyping: bast and hurd fibers. Each has unique characteristics and potential applications. The prototyping process explores the use of both hemp bast and hurd fibers, leveraging their unique qualities to create a range of paper-based products with improved durability, water absorption, and antibacterial properties. This approach not only offers sustainable alternatives to traditional paper products but also opens new possibilities for agricultural and manufacturing sectors. Key research outcomes and student roles in biomaterial design and prototyping: Research Outcomes: Development of biodegradable product packaging using industrial hemp fibers. Creation of sheet-formed paper for various applications. Prototyping of sustainable products using hemp-based materials. Characterization of material properties of hemp-based prototypes. Validation of hemp as a high-yielding, carbon-negative raw material for paper production. This biomaterial design project allowed students to gain hands-on experience in sustainable material development, prototype creation, and evaluation of eco-friendly alternatives to conventional products. The research outcomes demonstrate the potential of hemp-based materials in various applications, while highlighting the environmental and economic benefits of this approach. Plant Sciences This research study focused on two main aspects of hemp-derived CBD oil: bacterial resistance and trichome maturation in Cannabis sativa. Here's a summary of the key points: Background: Endocannabinoids are naturally produced by animals, including humans. Phytocannabinoids, similar chemicals, are produced by cannabis plants. The human body has receptors that bind with hemp-produced cannabinoids. CBD interacts with the Endocannabinoid System (ECS), affecting various bodily functions. Rationale: Concerns about falsely labeled CBD products and potential contaminants. Social and market confusion about CBD as a medicine. Research Methodology: Students used several methods of hemp extraction, tested antibacterial properties, and measured trichome maturation.? Key Findings: The extraction methods produced quality-grade products. Cooking oil with CBD showed the highest resistance, comparable to ampicillin. Phenotypes did not affect trichome length. Conclusions: CBD demonstrated potential medicinal properties, particularly in bacterial resistance. The study highlighted the importance of the endocannabinoid system in overall health. Researchers expressed optimism about CBD's future potential in addressing various health issues.?
Publications
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Axelrod, L., Charron, P., Tahir, I., Kostell, S., Floreani, R. (2023) The effect of pulp production times on the characteristics and properties of hemp-based paper. Materials Today Communications, 34.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Kolodinsky, J., Darby, H., Kostell, S., et al. (2021) Developing Metrics for Novel Value-Added Products: The Case of Hemp in Vermont. White Paper Developed for the ARS Food Systems Research Center, University of Vermont, January 15.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
Kostell, Steven, (2020). Paper & Transdisciplinary Practice in the Academy: Creating undergraduate research opportunities through transdisciplinary studies. North American Hand Papermakers Annual Meeting: Paper Currents; October.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Kostell, Steven, (2021). Processing Hemp for Fiber. Industrial Hemp Training Program webinar series. UVM Extension Northwest Crops and Soils (NWCS) program. February 9.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2022
Citation:
Ellison,A., Leonard, E., Rai, M., de Buy Wenniger , C. (2022) Consumer Attitudes and Awareness of Hemp Products at the Burlington Farmer's Market.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2022
Citation:
Forozis, M., Hayward, G., Hartley, J., O'hare Gibson, J. (2022) Industrial Hemp Production. Industrial Hemp Conference, UVM Northwest Crops and Soils Program.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2022
Citation:
Green, A., Montoya, J., Pichardo, I. (2022) Papermaking-Design & Prototype. Industrial Hemp Conference, UVM Northwest Crops and Soils Program.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2022
Citation:
Izazaga, S., Ware, A., Johnson, A. (2022) Hemps Microbiome and Common Pests. Industrial Hemp Conference, UVM Northwest Crops and Soils Program.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2022
Citation:
Kostell, Steven, (2022). Wisconsin Hemp by Hand, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Human Ecology and College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. March 3.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2022
Citation:
Kostell, Steven, (2022). The Design Innovation Mindset: Shifting the Waste-to-Value Paradigm. VTeen 4-H Science Pathways Caf�. University of Vermont Extension. February 9.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2022
Citation:
Kostell, Steven, (2022). Hemp fiber characterization & processing bio-material into paper. Industrial Hemp Conference, UVM Northwest Crops and Soils Program. February 23.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Harvey, C., Richard, J., Lopez, J. (2023) Challenges in Industrial Hemp Production. Industrial Hemp Conference, UVM Northwest Crops and Soils Program.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Jay, T., Moore,T., Washington,I. (2023) Characterization of Bacterial Resistance in Extracted Hemp Derived CBD Oil and Measuring Maturation of Trichome Heads in Cannabis Sativa . Industrial Hemp Conference, UVM Northwest Crops and Soils Program.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Kostell, Steven, (2023). Cultivating a fibershed mindset through place-based collaboration. IAPMA 27th Congress: Paper Alive! Paper Art International. Dresden, Germany September 12 - October 29.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Kostell, Steven, (2023). The Design Innovation Mindset: Shifting the Waste-to-Value Paradigm. VT 4-H Science Pathways Caf�. University of Vermont Extension. January 21.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Morris,D., Greene, L., Hibbs, D. (2023) Economics of Hemp Consumer Behavior. Industrial Hemp Conference, UVM Northwest Crops and Soils Program.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Prudhomme, O. & Nuanez, N. (2023) Design & Prototyping: Hemp Paper Bioproducts . Industrial Hemp Conference, UVM Northwest Crops and Soils Program.
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Progress 06/01/22 to 05/31/23
Outputs
Target Audience:Target Audience REEU 2022 Applicant Overview Applicants to review: 46 Previous REEU Experience: One (1) applicant identified as having previously participated in a USDA-sponsored experience Gender 15 Male 31 Female 0 Non-binary Race and Ethnicity African American 21 (45.65%) Asian American 3 Hispanic/LatinX 6 Caucasian/White 9 Indigenous/Native American 3 Other 4 School Class 29% First year 21% Sophmore 26% Junior 24% 1st Semester Senior GPA / Major Average GPA of total applicants: 3.18 List of majors: (26 total) Sociology Nutrition / Dietetics Agriculture Agribusiness 4 Animal science 4 Apparel & Merchandising, Concentration: Apparel Production and Design Applied Biotechnology 2 Biology 4 Biological Science Business Administration Community Entrepreneurship 2 Computer Engineering Computer Information Systems and Business Administration Earth, Society, and Environmental Sustainability Economics Environmental Science 4 Fashion Design General Studies Geology 3 Natural Resources Management Political Science Psychology Public Communications 2 Sustainability Sciences Urban Forestry 2 Undecided Wildlife Biology Full List of Schools Represented (22 total) California State Polytechnic Institute, Humboldt Cankdeska Cikana Community College City College of New York Clark Atlanta Univeristy (3) Colorado State University El Camino College (3) Furman University Hamilton College Howard University Navajo Technical University Southern University A&M College (5) Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute St. Mary's University Tohono O'Odham Community College (6) Tuskegee University (4) University Of Vermont (6) University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Virginia State University (3) Wellesley College Williams College Clark Atlanta University of Georgia (2) Changes/Problems:Last minute drop-outs from the cohort just prior to the start of the program. Some non-responsive, some preemptively reporting as ill. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Undergraduate students must understand and be able to implement new approaches to rural community development from a systems view. Extension faculty, research and teaching faculty across disciplines serve as mentors to the cohort and are teamed up to form sub-groups for deeper experiential research intensives. Participatory workshop modules delivered • Design thinking • Survey Design • Data Collection • Data Visualization • Community development • Economic impact • Student field experiences with community partners • Public Presentations • Community Development • Stakeholder engagement • Communicating Science/Research • Professional Presentation • Bioproduct Prototyping • Production system modeling for vertical integration • Student ideation/identification of agri-economic opportunities Key outcomes or other accomplishments realized • Students complete one year of the experience • UVM faculty and extension personnel embrace the idea of cross disciplinary experiences to build a future workforce • Students collect and evaluate consumer data • Students collect and evaluate field sample data • Students understand and embrace a design thinking approach to the agricultural transition • Students understand the agricultural transition, its opportunities and threats • Students apply their learning from the experience in their other university experiences and beyond--including multiple ways to collect, analyze, prototype, visualize, and communicate data to a variety of constituents • On-going relationships develop between community partners, UVM, and students • Target partner communities see a potential positive economic impact from pilot project implementation • Social capital built between community partners and the program delivered • Rural communities are more able to engage in discussions about the agricultural transition and how their communities may benefit • Cross University partnerships and research/extension collaborations continue • Students obtain employment/ internships at organizations businesses that address some component of the agricultural transition -- production, value added, expansion, community economic development • Student participants in the project become leaders in their field and transfer their knowledge to the next generation of learners How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?At the end of the research intensive, the cohort presented their conculding findings through a public webinar, sharing their findings with the stakeholder community. Representatives from the student cohort delivered presentations through "lightning talks" at the 2023 Northwest Crop & Soils Industrial Hemp Conference (UVM Extension) Cohort findings are presented to 4H Summer Academy participants (FANE award). What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Continue to collect consumer survey data Continue field data collection, contributing to extension and research outcomes Continue processing hemp fiber materials for bioproduct applications - further fiber characterization collaborations Continue stakeholder engagement through student/producer interactions Expose student cohort to agricultural innovation, professional training and career opportunities
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Rural agricultural communities are facing the need for an agricultural transition--including movement from commodities such as dairy to industrial hemp. Rural communities have a need to identify and implement economic development initiatives in bioproduct sectors. Transdisciplinary approaches to solving problems in rural socioeconomic systems is necessary toward building community resilience. Each summer (for 2021-2023), The University of Vermont (UVM) will engage up to 45 diverse undergraduate students through hands-on integrated field experiences in research and extension, to develop models for Agricultural Transition through Transformative Practices in Rural Economies with FACT. This research intensive presents opportunities to explore alternative agricultural practices and product/service development through a systems-view. Students embrace the idea that new models of economic opportunity are needed and can be implemented in rural communities to increase regional vitality. Students experience in scientific research, digital competencies, and can translate findings to real world practice. Field Experience Conduct stakeholder research - Cover crops - Soil quality - Variety trials - Vertical integration of on-farm processing - Glass greenhouse/organic production - Produces hemp commercially for CBD - Great first year (2018) was met with later difficulties - Emphasis on soil health - Constructing a decorticator in VT - Could create a market - Processing for extraction (CBD/CBG) - Laboratory testing & compliance Current Limitations - Only a test from a certified laboratory may be used as proof of compliance with the Vermont Hemp Rules. - There are only 2 labs in Vermont that are certified by The Vermont Cannabis Quality Control Program - There are no industrial decorticators in VT to process hemp for fiber Consequences - Widespread skepticism of hemp products - Acres registered for hemp boomed in VT from 2018 (3,290) to 2019 (8.800) - Registered acres dropped in 2020 (>1.600) and 2021 (~350) Recommendations - Agriculture shift from over saturated CBD markets to grain and fiber production - Investment to support industrial hemp processing facilities - Certification of laboratories for testing and compliance - Awareness of hemp cultivar characteristics and uses in manufacturing applications - Long-term research on agricultural niches & viability Determined whether different experimental fiber plots had flowering males and females present - Sexing Fiber Hemp Plants and Determining Flowering - Males and females are phenotypically distinct - Males tend to flower first - Males unwanted when growing for flower - Feminized seed can help prevent this - Neighboring males can pose a threat - ID Common Pests Consumer Attitudes and Awareness of Hemp Products at the Burlington Farmer's Market Collected 143 samples from Farmer's Market from 9am - 12pm on Saturday, 7/16/2022. Convenience sampling & intercept surveying - Participants included both Farmer's Market vendors and customers - Coded survey data in Excel and used SPSS for statistical analysis - Univariate and bivariate analyses Consumer Attitude Conclusions - Demographics did not have a consistent correlation in relation to hemp products. - Search preferences had a significant relationship with some hemp products. - Our findings demonstrate there is potential for expanding hemp products because of general interest and support in them. - Stakeholders including farmers, processors, marketers, and sellers all have vested interest in consumer perception of hemp products. - Marketers should focus on providing the public with more information on hemp products to increase public perception and use. - Our study allows hemp producers to understand consumer preferences and attitudes in order to drive the new hemp market. - However, more research will need to be conducted to generalize about a larger population. Lab Experiences Hemp Biomass Study ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) In our experiment it was used in order to detect viruses like Arabis mosaic and Nepo virus in the collected leaf samples from hemp plants at Borderview farm. The ELISA results, when calculating the negative for Hawiian Haze, yielded a value of 0.2074. This number is an indicator a healthy plant (negative), and so anything above it is an indicator of virus presence. All Hawaiian Haze samples were calculated to be below this threshold and therefore healthy, except for leaf one which was 0.2183. This is a bit above our other healthy plants, meaning there was a presence of virus. Analyzing the Soil Microbiome Soil samples collected from research plots at Borderview Farm. Starting with physical, mechanical, and chemical lysis processes; the DNA was isolated upon fine grounding, then purified in order to more efficiently analyze the DNA composition of the various soil samples. Physical Lysis/Mechanical Lysis/Chemical Lysis/Purification Using EcoPlate, diluted supernatant from soil samples is added to each well and microbiome can be analyzed to determine: - Average Metabolic Rate (AMR) - Community Metabolic Diversity (CMD) Scouting and Sampling the Phyllosphere: Highlight which pests and microorganisms are impacting hemp production- Identify visible pests and signs of disease upon sample varieties of hemp at Borderview Farm. - Identify visible pests and signs of disease upon sample varieties of hemp at Borderview Farm. - Upon identification, proceed to collect/sample leaves with these visible qualities for further analysis. The swabbed plates for each Hemp variety varied in their visible colony formation of fungi and bacteria. Analyses was taken a step further, to include UV testing to confirm or deny the presence of Pseudomonas Fluorescence, a common bacterium found in the phyllosphere of plants. Microscopy Of Mycorrhizae - Mycorrhizae is a fungus that works in symbiosis with many plants. This symbiotic fungus allows plants to take up more phosphorus, and the fungus takes sugar and nutrients from the plant as an exchange. Two types of Beneficial fungus - Arbuscular Mycorrhizae penetrate the plants hyphea and tend to produce structures that reseble a ballon. - Ectomycorrhizae do not penetrate the plant but instead build a netlike structure around the plant cells Biofiber Processing and Bioproduct Prototyping Pulping trials Cultivar Fiber Characterization Study for bast and hurd fiber - Conduct and document fiber trials for bast and hurd fibers -Training on lab equipment for mechanical pulping, pressing and drying SOPs - Documentation of sourcing fibers, recording stages of processing and sheet forming - Determine characteristics for flat and dimensional applications Byproduct design - Understand and apply hand-papermaking methods as materials research - Preliminary research on hydrophilic/hydrophobic properties of hemp papers - Preliminary fiber characterization study from UVM Hemp Trial fiber cultivars -Incorporate circular design methodologies to prototype design - Develop working knowledge of 2D design applications Micro-manufacturing opportunities - Understand stages of processing/refining fibers through decortication, delignification, and mechanical pulping and links to potential manufacturing applications - Identify current-use food packaging as target application/case study for non-woody fiber paper-based applications in single use waste stream - Develop model for low-barrier on-farm processing
Publications
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Progress 06/01/21 to 05/31/22
Outputs
Target Audience:REEU 2021 Applicant Overview Applicants to review 28 Complete applications - nothing missing 18 Complete but missing one or more letters of recommendation 9 Complete but missing a letter of introduction 1 Incomplete or blank applications 144 Incomplete - filled in some information after personal contact info 38 Not started - provided their name and contact info but nothing else 65 Blank - only opened the application 41 * If duplicate applicants were identified, then only their most complete application was analyzed. Total applicants refers to all complete, partially complete and incomplete applications. Previous REEU Experience No applicants identified as having previously participated in a USDA-sponsored experience. Schools Number of schools represented by total applicants 30 Most common schools Tuskegee University 6 University of Massachusetts Amherst 5 University of Vermont 4 Kenyon College 3 University of Texas Rio Grande Valley 2 Bowie State University 2 University of Rhode Island 2 See full list of schools below School Class Majority of total applicants (55%) are juniors First year 9 Sophomore 5 Junior 23 1st semester senior 5 GPA Average GPA of total applicants 3.36 Average GPA of complete/nearly complete applicants 3.44 Major Number of major categories represented by total applicants 15 Most common majors Biology 10 Environmental Studies/Science 6 Animal Sciences 5 Agriculture 4 Plant Science 3 Art 3 See full list of majors below Gender The majority of applicants are female (82%) Female 40 Male 9 Race and Ethnicity The majority of total applicants identified as African American (39%) African American 19 Asian American 3 Hispanic/LatinX 12 Caucasian/White 11 Asian/White 1 African American/White 1 Greek/Mediterranean 1 Full List of Schools Represented Alabama State University 1 Bowie State University 2 Cedar Crest College 1 Florida Memorial University 1 Fort Valley State University 1 Hartnell College 1 Humboldt State University 1 Ithaca College 1 Kenyon College 3 Lincoln University of Pennsylvania 1 Los Angeles Mission College 1 Miami Dade College 1 Mount Allison University 1 Mount Holyoke 1 North Carolina A&T State University 1 Northeast Wisconsin Technical College 1 Nueta Hidatsa Sahnish College 1 Prairie View A&M University 1 Stillman College 1 Truckee Meadows Community College 1 Tuskegee University 6 University of Illinois 1 University of Arizona Yuma 1 University of Massachusetts Amherst 5 University of Missouri at Columbia 1 University of Rhode Island 2 University of Texas at San Antonio 1 University of Texas Rio Grande Valley 2 University of Vermont 4 University of Wisconsin Milwaukee 1 Full List of Majors Represented Agricultural Business 1 Agriculture Systems Management 1 Agriculture- Plant and Soil Sciences 1 Animal & Poultry Science 1 Animal and Veterinary Sciences 1 Animal Poultry and Veterinary Science 2 Animal Science 1 Biological Engineering 1 Biology 9 Biology and Public Health Dual Degree 1 Biotechnology 1 Computer Science 1 Computer Science, Sustainability, Environmental Science 1 Double Major American Studies and Art 1 Engineering 1 Environmental Science 1 Environmental Science & Management 1 Environmental Studies 3 Environmental Studies/ Politics 1 Food Systems 1 Geography and Environmental Sustainability 1 Information Technology 1 Nutrition and Food Science 1 Plant Science 2 Plant Science Concentration in Biotechnology 1 Sociology 1 Studio Art 2 Sustainable Foods and Agricultural Systems 1 Zoology 1 Changes/Problems:One participant dropped out at the last minute - no back-up candidates accepted offer to participate due to short timeline. COVID 19 restrictions limited stakeholder engagement COVID exposure in the last two days resulting in the canellation of the in-person presentations and moving concluding research presentations to presented as online webinar. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Undergraduate students must understand and be able to implement new approaches to rural community development from a systems view. Extension faculty, research and teaching faculty across disciplines serve as mentors to the cohort and are teamed up to form sub-groups for deeper experiential research intensives. Participatory workshop modules delivered Design thinking Survey Design Data Collection Data Visualization Community development Economic impact Student field experiences with community partners Public Presentations Community Development Stakeholder engagement Communicating Science/Research Professional Presentation Bioproduct Prototyping Production system modeling for vertical integration Student ideation/identification of agri-economic opportunities Key outcomes or other accomplishments realized Students complete one year of the experience UVM faculty and extension personnel embrace the idea of cross disciplinary experiences to build a future workforce Students collect and evaluate consumer data Students collect and evaluate field sample data Students understand and embrace a design thinking approach to the agricultural transition Students understand the agricultural transition, its opportunities and threats Students apply their learning from the experience in their other university experiences and beyond--including multiple ways to collect, analyze, prototype, visualize, and communicate data to a variety of constituents On-going relationships develop between community partners, UVM, and students Target partner communities see a potential positive economic impact from pilot project implementation Social capital built between community partners and the program delivered Rural communities are more able to engage in discussions about the agricultural transition and how their communities may benefit Cross University partnerships and research/extension collaborations continue Students obtain employment/ internships at organizations businesses that address some component of the agricultural transition -- production, value added, expansion, community economic development Student participants in the project become leaders in their field and transfer their knowledge to the next generation of learners How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?At the end of the research intensive,the cohort presented their conculding findings through a public webinar, sharing their findings with the stakeholder community. Representatives from the student cohort delivered presentations through "lightning talks" at the 2022 Northwest Crop & Soils Industrial Hemp Conference (UVM Extension) Cohort findings are presented to 4H Summer Academy participants (FANE award) What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Continue to collect consumer survey data Continue field data collection, contributing to extension and research outcomes Continue processing hemp fiber materials for bioproduct applications - further fiber characterization collaborations Continue stakeholder engagement through student/producer interactions Expose student cohort to agricultural innovation, professional training and career opportunities
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Rural agricultural communities are facing the need for an agricultural transition--including movement from commodities such as dairy to industrial hemp. Rural communities have a need to identify and implement economic development initiatives in bioproduct sectors. Transdisciplinary approaches to solving problems in rural socioeconomic systems is necessary toward building community resilience. Each summer for (2021-2023), The University of Vermont (UVM) will engage up to 45 diverse undergraduate students through hands-on integrated field experiences in research and extension, to develop models for Agricultural Transition through Transformative Practices in Rural Economies with FACT. This research intensive presents opportunities to explore alternative agricultural practices and product/service development through a systems-view. Students embrace the idea that new models of economic opportunity are needed and can be implemented in rural communities to increase regional vitality. Students experience in scientific research, digital competencies, and can translate findings to real world practice. Field Experience Conduct stakeholder research - Cover crops - Soil quality - Variety trials - Vertical integration of on-farm processing - Glass greenhouse/organic production - Produces hemp commercially for CBD - Great first year (2018) was met with later difficulties - Emphasis on soil health - Constructing a decorticator in VT - Could create a market - Processing for extraction (CBD/CBG) - Laboratory testing & compliance Current Limitations - Only a test from a certified laboratory may be used as proof of compliance with the Vermont Hemp Rules. - There are only 2 labs in Vermont that are certified by The Vermont Cannabis Quality Control Program - There are no industrial decorticators in VT to process hemp for fiber Consequences - Widespread skepticism of hemp products - Acres registered for hemp boomed in VT from 2018 (3,290) to 2019 (8.800) - Oversupply led to market crash - Registered acres dropped in 2020 (>1.600) and 2021 (~350) Recommendations - Agriculture shift from over saturated CBD markets to grain and fiber production - Investment to support industrial hemp processing facilities - Certification of laboratories for testing and compliance - Awareness of hemp cultivar characteristics and uses in manufacturing applications - Long-term research on agricultural niches & viability Determined whether different experimental fiber plots had flowering males and females present - Sexing Fiber Hemp Plants and Determining Flowering - Males and females are phenotypically distinct - Males tend to flower first - Males unwanted when growing for flower - Feminized seed can help prevent this - Neighboring males can pose a threat - ID Common Pests Consumer Attitudes and Awareness of Hemp Products at the Burlington Farmer's Market Collected 144 samples from Farmer's Market from 9am - 12pm on Saturday, 7/17/2021. Convenience sampling & intercept surveying - Participants included both Farmer's Market vendors and customers - Coded survey data in Excel and used SPSS for statistical analysis - Univariate and bivariate analyses Consumer Attitude Conclusions - Demographics did not have a consistent correlation in relation to hemp products. - Search preferences had a significant relationship with some hemp products. - Our findings demonstrate there is potential for expanding hemp products because of general interest and support in them. - Stakeholders including farmers, processors, marketers, and sellers all have vested interest in consumer perception of hemp products. - Marketers should focus on providing the public with more information on hemp products to increase public perception and use. - Our study allows hemp producers to understand consumer preferences and attitudes in order to drive the new hemp market. - However, more research will need to be conducted to generalize about a larger population. Lab Experiences Hemp Biomass Study ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) In our experiment it was used in order to detect viruses like Arabis mosaic and Nepo virus in the collected leaf samples from hemp plants at Borderview farm. The ELISA results, when calculating the negative for Hawiian Haze, yielded a value of 0.2074. This number is an indicator a healthy plant (negative), and so anything above it is an indicator of virus presence. All Hawaiian Haze samples were calculated to be below this threshold and therefore healthy, except for leaf one which was 0.2183. This is a bit above our other healthy plants, meaning there was a presence of virus. Analyzing the Soil Microbiome Soil samples collected from research plots at Borderview Farm. Starting with physical, mechanical, and chemical lysis processes; the DNA was isolated upon fine grounding, then purified in order to more efficiently analyze the DNA composition of the various soil samples. Physical Lysis/Mechanical Lysis/Chemical Lysis/Purification Using EcoPlate, diluted supernatant from soil samples is added to each well and microbiome can be analyzed to determine: - Average Metabolic Rate (AMR) - Community Metabolic Diversity (CMD) How does genetic plant and soil testing contribute to agroecological knowledge within the industry? Scouting and Sampling the Phyllosphere: Highlight which pests and microorganisms are impacting hemp production - Identify visible pests and signs of disease upon sample varieties of hemp at Borderview Farm. - Identify visible pests and signs of disease upon sample varieties of hemp at Borderview Farm. - Upon identification, proceed to collect/sample leaves with these visible qualities for further analysis. The swabbed plates for each Hemp variety varied in their visible colony formation of fungi and bacteria. Analyses was taken a step further, to include UV testing to confirm or deny the presence of Pseudomonas Fluorescence, a common bacterium found in the phyllosphere of plants. Microscopy Of Mycorrhizae - Mycorrhizae is a fungus that works in symbiosis with many plants. This symbiotic fungus allows plants to take up more phosphorus, and the fungus takes sugar and nutrients from the plant as an exchange. Two types of Beneficial fungus - Arbuscular Mycorrhizae penetrate the plants hyphea and tend to produce structures that reseble a ballon. - Ectomycorrhizae do not penetrate the plant but instead build a netlike structure around the plant cells Biofiber Processing and Bioproduct Prototyping Pulping trials Cultivar Fiber Characterization Study for bast and hurd fiber - Conduct and document fiber trials for bast and hurd fibers - Training on lab equipment for mechanical pulping, pressing and drying SOPs - Documentation of sourcing fibers, recording stages of processing and sheet forming - Determine characteristics for flat and dimensional applications Byproduct design - Understand and apply hand-papermaking methods as materials research - Preliminary research on hydrophilic/hydrophobic properties of hemp papers - Preliminary fiber characterization study from UVM Hemp Trial fiber cultivars - Incorporate circular design methodologies to prototype design - Develop working knowledge of 2D design applications Micro-manufacturing opportunities - Understand stages of processing/refining fibers through decortication, delignification, and mechanical pulping and links to potential manufacturing applications - Identify current-use food packaging as target application/case study for non-woody fiber paper-based applications in single use waste stream - Develop model for low-barrier on-farm processing
Publications
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
2021 UVM REEU public stakeholder webinar
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2022
Citation:
UVM REEU public presentation at the Industrial Hemp Conference
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