Greetings from the College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences (CAHNRS) at Washington State University!
This is Raj Khosla, Cashup Davis Family Endowed Dean of CAHNRS. I am delighted to welcome you to the February issue of On Solid Ground — your window into WSU discovery, learning, and community engagement efforts that power agriculture, natural resources, and communities across the Pacific Northwest.
In this edition, you will explore how multiple WSU teams are harnessing the power of artificial intelligence to shape and support the farms of the future. Featured are the college’s evolving grower-supporting AgWeather Network, the WSU-developed StockSmart tool, farm automation and robotics, streamflow forecasting tools, and AgAID, a WSU institute addressing agricultural challenges here in the Northwest.
You’ll also meet our longest-serving Extension educator, Margaret Viebrock. This award-winning leader has helped support women-led farms and improved wellbeing for many Washington families during her 55-year career at WSU.
Readers will get to know a college leader dedicated to advancing student success. Nancy Deringer is our Associate Dean for Student Success and Academic Programs, focused on increasing recruitment, retention, and ensuring students across our broad range of majors finish their degrees successfully and on time.
You will also be introduced to our new Indigenous-focused horticulturist, Jeffrey Wall. Jeffrey’s work brings him into partnership with Indigenous-led organizations to learn how traditional practices can help nourish people and aid our environment.
Each of these stories reflects our shared commitment to strengthening agriculture, natural resources, and the communities we serve. Enjoy the issue and Go Cougs!