Research Sites

Somebody always has to go first – to be the one who explores new territory, advances the boundaries of knowledge, and sees possibilities no one has ever seen before. Somebody always has to pioneer the future. For more than 100 years we in the Agricultural Research Division at the University of Nebraska Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources have been doing that – exploring possibilities and advancing scientific frontiers.

For over 90 of those years we have been working at several key sites in the state – sites we call Research, Extension, and Education Centers. At each center we serve the economic, environmental and social needs and interest of that center’s region, as well as of all Nebraska. Our continuing goal is to be in the forefront of those pioneering a bright and promising future for our state.

The University of Nebraska faculty and staff provide innovative research leadership as they work with Nebraskans to solve the state’s problems and to contribute to the well-being of all citizens. Our research emphasizes people’s real concerns, and our research programs show great breadth and diversity. Research projects range from developing new crop varieties to improving turf and flowers for urban and rural gardens, and from a quality water supply to quality of life for all Nebraskans.

We currently focus on increasing production efficiency, developing new uses of commodities for food and industrial purposes, ensuring a safe and nutritious food supply, developing production systems compatible with maintaining a quality environment and conserving natural resources and enhancing rural communities and the quality of life for Nebraska families. By conducting targeted research applicable to real world problems and by reporting research results as quickly as possible, ARD enhances the state’s economy, environment and quality of life.

ARD scientists, in cooperation with Nebraska towns, businesses and private individuals, conduct research throughout the state. Their studies are always ongoing at the University of Nebraska’s four Research, Extension, and Education Centers and at the Agricultural Research and Development Center near Mead.