Research plays a critical role in advancing the mission of land-grant universities and their Extension services. Land-grants, like The Ohio State University, were founded on the principles of practical research and innovation aimed at benefiting academic growth and the livelihood of communities, industries, and the public. Through its research efforts, Ohio State University Extension has built an exchange of knowledge that directly benefits local agricultural producers, industries, and communities. The research findings empower agricultural producers to make informed decisions, improve productivity, and enhance sustainability on their farms.
Faculty and staff within Extension’s Agriculture and Natural Resources program work directly with agricultural producers, and industry representatives across the state to conduct on-site research. Their findings bring better understanding of how variables such as soil type and health, weather conditions, and other environmental factors impact crop production. On-site research is especially powerful as it not only generates real-world data but also builds strong relationships between agricultural producers, Extension, and industry partners. The research results reflect local needs that offer practical, area-specific solutions that can help growers optimize their operations.
In 2024, Extension professionals collaborated with local producers to capture critical data from 428 research sites statewide through the eFields and ePLUS research programs. Their findings highlight the essential role of research in navigating challenges posed by climate, technology, and resource management in Ohio’s agricultural community.
eFields Research
Ohio State’s eFields research focuses on bringing more understanding to agricultural production practices. The findings offer insight into how different environmental conditions affect crop growth and production. During the 2024 growing season, Extension faculty and staff worked with agricultural producers in 42 Ohio counties to conduct on-farm research at 260 locations. The primary focus of eFields research during the last growing season focused on precision nutrient management strategies, including optimizing fertilizer use, improving pesticide and seed application, evaluating biologicals, and advancing digital tools for agriculture.
The findings from last year’s growing season were recently compiled and made publicly available through the 2024 eFields Report. This report is a valuable resource for Ohio’s agricultural producers, equipping them with data-driven insights to make informed decisions for their farming practices. The electronic version of the 2024 eFields Report is available at go.osu.edu/eFields2024, and hard copies will be available at local county Extension offices soon.
ePLUS Research
In 2024, the ePLUS research program was initiated to model the eFields research program. Instead of focusing on row crops and forages, ePLUS research focuses on fruit and vegetable production, ornamentals, woodlands, and aquatics. Research under the ePLUS program is dedicated to advancing production agriculture and wise use of natural resources through on-site research. The research areas for ePLUS focus on crop pest and cultural management, conservation, technology, mechanization, economic analysis, and community engagement.
David Ernst, an agricultural producer in Morrow County, shared about his experience as an ePLUS research partner. “I have long been fascinated by new and innovative farming practices and the research that has led to them. The opportunity for my family and farm to be active participants in one such study has been both exciting and rewarding.”
In 2024, the ePLUS research program included 168 research sites across 54 counties in Ohio, focusing on cutting-edge practices that aim to improve sustainability, efficiency, and profitability in farm, forest, and garden enterprises. The 2024 ePLUS Report is available at go.osu.edu/ePLUS2024.
MOVING FORWARD
On-site research programs like eFields and ePLUS identify immediate and long-term challenges for agricultural producers, from adapting to climate change to enhancing resource management. As agriculture continues to evolve, the collaboration between Extension, industry, and farmers will be more crucial than ever.
Any agricultural producer or grower interested in participating in on-site research should contact their local Extension office. A list of all county and state Extension offices is available at extension.osu.edu/lao.