Mission:
We have two research units: New England Plant, Soil and Water Laboratory located in Orono, Maine and National Cold Water Marine Aquaculture Center located in Franklin, Maine. The mission of the New England Plant, Soil, and Water Laboratory is to develop and transfer sustainable, environmentally sound crop management systems characterized by profitability, efficient use of nutrients and water, and control of disease/insect/weed pests with minimal chemical inputs. Towards this mission, research is conducted to evaluate the impact of new cropping systems and management practices on plant pathogens, nutrient dynamics, water availability, soil properties, yield, and profitability. Research is also conducted to optimize recycling of manure-derived nutrients while minimizing adverse environmental consequences of manure application to cropland. The common goal and vision of these research and technology transfer programs is to enhance rural economic vitality in concert with the environment. The mission of the National Cold Water Marine Aquaculture Center is to conduct research that will solve problems limiting production efficiency of coldwater marine aquaculture. The current primary research focus is genetic improvement using an applied selective breeding program to increase efficiency and sustainability of Atlantic salmon culture.