Research Overview
AFES researchers work to provide Alaskans with scientific information about agriculture and natural resources that contribute to our everyday lives through food and landscapes. From breeding programs and varietal trails to forestry products and plant pests, AFES research focuses on improving Alaska’s plant production, economic diversity and access to our natural resources.
Research
The Agricultural Soils Lab studies the nature of agricultural soils in Alaska and how different management practices influence soil function and plant growth. This research informs sustainable farming practices, crop expansion guidance, and soil and nutrient management recommendations in the far north.
The Alaska CESU is a partnership between academic and federal agencies that focuses on Arctic and Subarctic anthropology, landscapes, ecology, archeology, and physical and biological sciences.
Research focuses on the relationship of Interior Alaska's boreal forest to water in response to climate, environmental, and vegetation change. By measuring how plants use, store and move water, we can study how different plants respond to a variety of weather conditions, water availability and changes in climate.
Forestry research at AFES is focused on boreal forest ecosystems and forest products. Our researchers work to understand how our forests respond to climate and environmental change, providing knowledge and data products to land users and managers.
Due to Alaska’s short growing season, many producers use greenhouses. AFES researchers are working to improve greenhouse food and ornamental plant production methods for Alaskan commercial growers.
Researchers address the public need for invasive species and pest management tailored to Alaska’s issues and environment. Studies focus on achieving long-term management of pest problems with minimal impact on human health, the environment and non-target organisms. This research informs integrated pest management strategies. Read more about integrated pest management outreach and education on the Cooperative Extension Service website.
The Northwest Climate Hub encompasses Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. It aims to help farmers, ranchers, forest landowners, and Native American tribes adapt to climate change by providing science-based knowledge and practical information.
Grain crop production research combines genomics with modern plant breeding techniques to find high-yielding and early-maturing barely and wheat varieties for the Alaskan climate and Alaskan farmers.
The variety trials aim to determine which vegetable, fruit and nut varieties grow best in various regions of Alaska. Researchers also evaluate varieties bred to have qualities that make them potentially good candidates for Alaska’s growing conditions, providing this information to farmers and gardeners state-wide.
Partner Projects
GLOBE promotes and supports students, teachers, and scientists to collaborate on inquiry-based investigations of the environment and the dynamics of the Earth system.
The Bonanza Creek LTER conducts ecological research at the Bonanza Creek site and Caribou-Poker Creeks Research Watershed sites.
Arctic and Earth SIGNs connects youth and adults to climate change and Earth science learning through inquiry-based GLOBE investigations and community stewardship projects. Come collaborate with NASA and Arctic scientists to make a difference right where you live!