Progress 01/03/24 to 01/02/25
Outputs
Target Audience:This project targets undergraduate students from the University of Massachusetts and community colleges, while also engaging key stakeholders, including fruit growers, Cooperative Extension personnel across New England, and researchers who supported this initiative in 2024. Over five years (2022-2026), the program aims to train 45 students in applied agricultural research and Extension. The need for a skilled workforce in these fields has been emphasized by agencies and industry stakeholders, as job opportunities in food, agriculture, renewable natural resources, and environmental sciences continue to expand. Despite this demand, many undergraduates at land-grant institutions remain unaware of the diverse career paths within Extension services, highlighting a disconnect between academic learning and real-world applications. In 2024, six students (five from UMass, one from Greenfield Community College) participated in the Research and Extension Experiences for Undergraduates (REEU) program, gaining hands-on experience in research and Extension work. This immersive summer internship is designed to inspire students to pursue careers in these critical fields, ultimately strengthening sustainable agriculture and ensuring resilient food systems for future generations. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Through the implementation of specialized training modules, students gained valuable skills in leadership, problem-solving, teamwork, and communication within both research and Extension contexts. Each intern presented their research findings at the 2024 REEU symposium in August. Additionally, students developed their media skills by learning how to create both a podcast and a magazine. The program included over 15 field trips to farms in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, the UMass Cranberry Station, the USDA APHIS Forest Pest Methods Laboratory (Buzzards Bay, MA), and the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (New Haven, MA), providing hands-on, real-world exposure to diverse agricultural systems. Professional development workshops and lectures were strategically designed to strengthen connections between the agricultural industry and academia, enhancing regional and national workforce development. These sessions provided students with unique opportunities to build relationships and deepen their understanding of the agricultural field, preparing them for future careers. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? The results of the USDA-supported Research and Extension Experiences for Undergraduates (REEU) internship program have been disseminated to communities of interest through various channels and activities including presentations and discussions with growers, engaging with researchers and Extension faculties at UMass, and reaching out to the larger communities via the podcast and REEU magazine. These communities include the UMass student and faculty community, farmers, and people interested in agriculture in Massachusetts. The program actively engages students from diverse majors, providing them with hands-on research and extension experiences in agriculture. Interns work directly with farmers, participate in field trips to local farms, and undertake research projects aimed at improving agricultural sustainability. The program emphasizes professional development by encouraging students to deliver oral presentations and engage in agri-journalism to communicate scientific findings to the public. Moreover, the internship promotes community engagement by fostering relationships between researchers, farmers, and food producers, ensuring that research solutions are directly applied to real-world problems. This holistic approach prepares students to contribute to the agricultural community by combining research, communication, and extension efforts to build sustainable farming systems. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?At the end of each REEU internship, we administer a final survey to assess the student experience. The feedback gathered will inform improvements to the REEU internship program for 2025. For the upcoming year, we have selected six undergraduate students to participate in the fourth year of the project. Throughout 2025, we will compile and analyze all student reports, activities, and feedback to create an impact statement, which will be included in the final report alongside details of the 2026 REEU internship.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
The Research and Extension Experiences for Undergraduates (REEU) program addresses the growing need for a skilled agricultural workforce through three key objectives: Research Training: Offering hands-on, technology-based research experiences to develop critical problem-solving and analytical skills. Extension Engagement: Immersing interns in Extension activities to highlight its role in local food systems while providing professional development. Career Awareness: Increasing student awareness of career paths in agricultural research, education, and Extension services. Supported by NIFA, the program offers mentorship from faculty, Extension professionals, and graduate students. Undergraduate-led projects align with the UMass Stockbridge School of Agriculture's mission, integrating research and Extension. Students also participated in professional development activities, culminating in a poster session to present their findings. Interns gained real-world agricultural experience by evaluating cropping systems, analyzing soil health, monitoring pests and diseases, and managing weather stations. They also executed their own Extension or research projects, presenting results through oral presentations. A key part of the program was an agri-journalism module, which helped students translate scientific research into accessible public information. The REEU program expands students' career opportunities in agriculture through a well-rounded professional network and diverse hands-on training. The 2024 cohort of six students reported a significant increase in knowledge about agricultural research and Extension careers. STUDENT IMPACT: A notable impact was the 2024 REEU internship being coordinated by a 2023 REEU alum! Izze Clark, who participated in 2023, returned in 2024 as the program coordinator, taking on a leadership role under the guidance of Ms. Elizabeth Garofalo and Dr. Jaime Piñero. This demonstrated the program's success in fostering continued engagement and professional growth. The 2024 REEU experience concluded with a symposium on August 30, 2024, where students showcased their projects. Below are concise descriptions of their work, highlighting the program's impact on preparing professionals for sustainable agriculture careers. STUDENT RESEARCH REPORTS - REEU PROGRAM 2024 Affordable Modular Irrigation for Small-Scale Farmers By: Cameron Boylan, Mateo Rull-Garza, Jaime C. Piñero Stockbridge School of Agriculture, University of Massachusetts Amherst Irrigation systems are essential for plant growth but can be costly for entry-level farmers. This study developed a low-cost, mobile modular irrigation prototype, using feedback from Massachusetts Fruit Growers Association members, along with an instructional program for assembly and benefits. Harnessing Native Beneficial Nematodes for Sustainable Pest Control in Massachusetts Apple Orchards By: Jack Chachkes, Mateo Rull-Garza, Jaime C. Piñero Stockbridge School of Agriculture, University of Massachusetts Amherst This study explored using native Entomopathogenic Nematodes (EPNs) as a sustainable pest control method in apple orchards. Soil samples were collected from managed and unmanaged orchards to assess EPN prevalence, with results suggesting the potential of native EPNs for pest management. Garlic Extracts and Essential Oil for Managing Rhizoctonia solani By: Liana Nichols, Mateo Rull Garza, Elizabeth Garofalo, Robert Wick, Jaime C. Piñero Stockbridge School of Agriculture, University of Massachusetts Amherst This study tested garlic extract and essential oil as natural antifungal treatments for Rhizoctonia solani, showing garlic extract significantly reduced fungal growth, while essential oil completely inhibited it. The findings suggest garlic-based treatments as sustainable biopesticides. Effects of Soil-Applied Microplastics on Tomato Growth By: Elizabeth Howard, Mateo Rull-Garza, Jaime C. Piñero Stockbridge School of Agriculture, University of Massachusetts Amherst This research examined how microplastics (PE, PVC, and PP) affect tomato growth, revealing that PE had the most negative impact, while PP unexpectedly promoted growth. These findings highlight the need for further research on microplastic effects in agriculture. Effects of Anaerobic Digestate on Plant Growth and Soil Health By: Maria Eduarda Tomielo Tonial, Mateo Rull-Garza, Jaime C. Piñero Stockbridge School of Agriculture, University of Massachusetts Amherst This study compared digestate, a byproduct of anaerobic digestion, to conventional fertilizers in corn and beans. Digestate improved soil nutrient availability and plant growth, offering an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic fertilizers. Harvesting Hope: Tackling Food Insecurity and Farm Waste Through Gleaning in Massachusetts By: Michael Hannigan, Mateo Rull Garza, Jaime C. Piñero Stockbridge School of Agriculture, University of Massachusetts Amherst This research explored barriers to gleaning in Massachusetts farms and assessed the impact of proposed legislation to encourage participation. Findings suggest legislative support could significantly boost farmer engagement in gleaning, reducing waste and improving food security.
Publications
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2024
Citation:
Hannigan, M., Rull-Garza, M., and Pi�ero, J.C. 2024. Harvesting Hope: Tackling Food Insecurity and Farm Waste Through Gleaning in Massachusetts. University of Massachusetts, Stockbridge School of Agriculture. Research report, Research and Extension Experience for Undergraduate students (REEU).
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2024
Citation:
Tomielo Tonial, M.E., Rull-Garza, M., and Pi�ero, J.C. 2024. Effects of Anaerobic Digestate on Plant Growth and Soil Health. University of Massachusetts, Stockbridge School of Agriculture. Research report, Research and Extension Experience for Undergraduate students (REEU).
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2024
Citation:
Howard, E., Rull-Garza, M., and Pi�ero, J.C. 2024. Effects of Soil-Applied Microplastics on Tomato Growth. University of Massachusetts, Stockbridge School of Agriculture. Research report, Research and Extension Experience for Undergraduate students (REEU).
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2024
Citation:
Nichols, L., Rull-Garza, M., Garofalo, E., Wick, R., and Pi�ero, J.C. 2024. Garlic Extracts and Essential Oil for Managing Rhizoctonia solani. University of Massachusetts, Stockbridge School of Agriculture. Research report, Research and Extension Experience for Undergraduate students (REEU).
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2024
Citation:
Chachkes, J., Rull-Garza, M., and Pi�ero, J.C. 2024. Harnessing Native Beneficial Nematodes for Sustainable Pest Control in Massachusetts Apple Orchards. University of Massachusetts, Stockbridge School of Agriculture. Research report, Research and Extension Experience for Undergraduate students (REEU).
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2024
Citation:
Boylan, C., Rull-Garza, M., and Pi�ero, J.C. 2024. Affordable Modular Irrigation for Small-Scale Farmers. University of Massachusetts, Stockbridge School of Agriculture. Research report, Research and Extension Experience for Undergraduate students (REEU).
|
Progress 01/03/23 to 01/02/24
Outputs
Target Audience:The target audience of this project is undergraduate students from the University of Massachusetts and from Community Colleges. This project seeks to provide training on applied agricultural research and Extension to 45 students over a 5-year period (2022-2026). The need to increase the workforce in applied research and agricultural Extension has been voiced by agencies and stakeholders, as job opportunities for food, agriculture, renewable natural resources, and environmental science graduates in STEM areas are expected to grow. During the next years, college graduates will find broad employment opportunities if they have expertise in food, agriculture, renewable natural resources, or the environment. Undergraduate students at land-grant institutions across the country are often unaware of the depth and breadth of Extension services and careers. This underscores some disconnect between academic courses and real-world applications. In 2023, nine undergraduate students (six from UMass, one from Holyoke Community College, and two from Greenfield Community College) participated in the REEU internship program. For Moshe Skoglund, Izze Stevenson, and their seven fellow interns (2023), a summer in the REEU program exposes them to any and all aspects related to vital Extension work. The REEU internship is designed to encourage them to pursue this work as a career, helping to build a more sustainable farming community and ensuring future generations can put food on their tables. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Through the implementation of training modules, students were exposed to leadership, problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills in research and Extension. Each intern presented their findings at the REEU symposium, held in August, 2023. The professional development workshops and lectures that were offered to the REEU students focused on strengthening industrial and academic ties to develop the regional and national workforce. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Student presentationsat the 2023 Massachusetts Fruit Growers Association summer meeting held at Honey Pot Hill Orchards, Stow, MA (7.12.23). Audience: 105 people. The UMass community became aware of the REEU internship program:https://www.umass.edu/gateway/umass-stories/shaping-future-farming. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?A final survey assessing the 2023 REEU experience was implemented among student interns. Their feedback will be used to improve our 2024 REEU internship program.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
The REEU project has three key objectives: to provide research training to undergraduate students via hands-on applied research and technology-based experiences, to engage interns in extension activities that emphasize extension's important role in local food systems and provide unique training experiences and professional development, and to increase awareness of agricultural research education and extension employment opportunities. The summer internship program supported by NIFA has provided direct mentoring of undergraduates by faculty members, Extension professionals, and advanced graduate students. The undergraduate-led projects reflect the mission and portfolio of the UMass Stockbridge School of Agriculture, which includes both research and Extension. In addition to project-related duties, students participated in professional development activities and presented their work at a poster session at the end of the summer. Throughout the internship, students evaluated cropping systems, analyzed soil health, monitored pests and diseases, managed automated weather stations, and much more. Interns designed their own Extension or research project and delivered oral presentations. They also participated in an agri-journalism module, allowing them to develop vital communication skills--especially regarding the translation of scientific content for public consumption. The program opens students up to new opportunities in agriculture by creating a well-rounded network and providing diverse hands-on research and Extension experience. In 2023, the REEU internship program provided training to nine undergraduate students. All students reported a moderate to significant increase in knowledge about Extension and Research as a direct result of their 2023 REEU Experience. Overall, students report a 37% increase in Scientific Competence across various criteria as a result of their REEU 20223 experience. "The extension system provides a backbone for what the relationship between farmer and researcher should theoretically be," says Moshe Skoglund, a student pursuing an associates degree in the sustainable food and farming two-year program. NEWS PIECE:https://www.umass.edu/gateway/umass-stories/shaping-future-farming
Publications
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Francke, M., Rull-Garza, M., Garofalo, E., and Pi�ero, J.C. 2023. Can Watersprout Pruning Reduce Pear Psylla Abundance? Fruit Notes 88(3): 5-9.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Swinson, M., Mian, S., Rull-Garza, M., and Pi�ero, J.C. 2023. Multi-cultivar Grafted Apple Trees. IPM Fact Sheet Series, University of Massachusetts Extension, Fact Sheet # IPM- .
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Swinson, M., Rull-Garza, M., and Pi�ero, J.C. 2023. Entomology for Kids! IPM Fact Sheet Series, University of Massachusetts Extension, Fact Sheet # IPM- .
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Swinson, M., Alisauskas , C., Rull-Garza, M., and Pi�ero, J.C. 2023. Biodiversity: A Brief Overview & Practical Application. IPM Fact Sheet Series, University of Massachusetts Extension, Fact Sheet # IPM- .
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Swinson, M., Paulson, E., Rull-Garza, M., and Pi�ero, J.C. 2023. What is Permaculture? IPM Fact Sheet Series, University of Massachusetts Extension, Fact Sheet # IPM- .
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Swinson, M., Petersen, C., Rull-Garza, M., and Pi�ero, J.C. 2023. Kaolin Clay. IPM Fact Sheet Series, University of Massachusetts Extension, Fact Sheet # IPM- .
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Swinson, M., Skoglund, M., Rull-Garza, M., and Pi�ero, J.C. 2023. Mass Trapping Japanese Beetles with a Dual Lure Sock Trap. IPM Fact Sheet Series, University of Massachusetts Extension, Fact Sheet # IPM- .
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Swinson, M., Clark, I., Rull-Garza, M., and Pi�ero, J.C. 2023. American Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis): The Giving Tree. IPM Fact Sheet Series, University of Massachusetts Extension, Fact Sheet # IPM- .
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Rossman, B., Bley, M., Rull-Garza, M., and Pi�ero, J.C. 2023. Developing and Implementing Engaging Educational Experiences at Cobble Hill Farm Education & Rescue Center. University of Massachusetts, Stockbridge School of Agriculture. Research report, Research and Extension Experience for Undergraduate students (REEU).
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Alisauskas, C., Rull-Garza, M., and Pi�ero, J.C. 2023. Biodiversity Boost: Unleashing Ecosystem Services for a Thriving Planet. University of Massachusetts, Stockbridge School of Agriculture. Research report, Research and Extension Experience for Undergraduate students (REEU).
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Clark, I., Rull-Garza, M., and Pi�ero, J.C. 2023. Re-Establishment of Native Fruit Species in New England in Support of Climate Smart Agriculture: Assessing the Consumer Education Barriers for Market Entry. Research report, Research and Extension Experience for Undergraduate students (REEU). University of Massachusetts, Stockbridge School of Agriculture. Research report, Research and Extension Experience for Undergraduate students (REEU).
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Pattavina, M., B., Rull-Garza, M., Bley, M., and Pi�ero, J.C. 2023. Surveying Farmers Perspectives on Integrated Pest Management strategies in Massachusetts. University of Massachusetts, Stockbridge School of Agriculture. Research report, Research and Extension Experience for Undergraduate students (REEU).
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Skoglund, M., Rull-Garza, M., and Pi�ero, J.C. 2023. Japanese Beetle Mass Trapping in Massachusetts Grapes and Blueberries. University of Massachusetts, Stockbridge School of Agriculture. Research report, Research and Extension Experience for Undergraduate students (REEU).
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Mian, S., Rull-Garza, M., and Pi�ero, J.C. 2023. Determining the Feeding Preferences of Rosy Apple Aphids for Six Apple Cultivars. University of Massachusetts, Stockbridge School of Agriculture. Research report, Research and Extension Experience for Undergraduate students (REEU).
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Moriarty, K., Swinson, M., Rull-Garza, M., and Pi�ero, J.C. 2023. Renewing Sustainable Practices at Holyoke Community College: Drafting a Preliminary Layout for a Self-Sufficient Permaculture Garden. University of Massachusetts, Stockbridge School of Agriculture. Research report, Research and Extension Experience for Undergraduate students (REEU).
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2023
Citation:
Petersen, C., Rull-Garza, M., Clements, J., Greene, D., Garofalo, E., Glaze-Corcoran, S., and Pi�ero, J.C. 2023. Effects of Kaolin Clay as Groundcover on Nutrient Composition in Apple Trees. Research report, Research and Extension Experience for Undergraduate students (REEU). University of Massachusetts, Stockbridge School of Agriculture. Research report, Research and Extension Experience for Undergraduate students (REEU).
|