Mun Y. Choi, PhD, President | University of Missouri
Mun Y. Choi, PhD, President | University of Missouri
The University of Missouri Board of Curators has voted to approve the naming of the Roy Blunt Soil Testing and Research Laboratory planned at the Fisher Delta Research, Extension and Education Center (FD-REEC) in Portageville, Missouri, to honor the former U.S. senator. The official groundbreaking event will be held April 5.
Former Sen. Blunt expressed his enthusiasm for the new facility, stating, “It is an honor to have my name connected with this world-class facility right in the heart of the region that will benefit from the research the most.”
Supported by various funding sources, including the U. S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development, the state of Missouri, and the Fisher Delta FD-REEC, the state-of-the-art laboratory aims to advance research and innovation in agricultural programs. Robin Wenneker, chair of the UM Board of Curators, highlighted Senator Blunt's dedication to agriculture, stating, "It is only fitting... to recognize his support and partnership over the years."
The project, led by the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources, will provide advanced soil sample and water and plant-tissue testing, as well as space for research programs and greenhouse operations.
University of Missouri President Mun Choi commended Sen. Blunt for his support of public higher education and the university's mission, stating, “We are proud to honor his legacy and to strengthen agriculture in the Bootheel and around the state.”
The Soil Testing and Research Laboratory is set to offer unique testing services not currently available in the region, with Christopher S. Daubert, dean of the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources, noting the facility's importance in enhancing research quality and supporting local farmers.
Chad Higgins, chief engagement officer for the UM System, expressed gratitude for Sen. Blunt’s dedication to securing funding for the laboratory, emphasizing the importance of the facility in supporting innovation in agriculture research and the state's producers.
Alerts Sign-up