Local officials tour Ohio State CFAES Wooster campus

The Wayne County commissioners and Wooster Mayor Bob Reynolds and his staff recently toured the Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Wooster campus.

“The goal of this visit is to provide insight into the impactful work taking place here on our CFAES Wooster campus,” said Andy Michel, associate dean and director. “It’s an opportunity to experience firsthand the meaningful contributions we make across our three mission areas: research, teaching and extension.”

One of the discussion topics was CFAES Wooster’s continued partnership with the extension office. The Ohio State University Extension bolsters the local agricultural industry and is a vital resource for farmers and agribusinesses.

Extension offices provide access to research-based information and education on various topics including pest management, soil health, crop production and sustainable farming practices. OSU Extension empowers local farmers to implement cutting-edge agricultural techniques and technologies to increase productivity and ensure sustainability by offering workshops, training sessions and individualized consultations.

Extension educator Frank Becker discussed the threat of disease local farmers face and the steps his office is taking to support local farmers impacted by the threat.

“We pride ourselves on being one of the first indicators for disease in the state,” Becker said.

When a disease is detected, Becker and his staff can provide farmers with recommendations.

According to Becker, tar spot has been detected recently in Wayne County.

Tar spot, a fungal disease relatively new to Ohio, poses a significant threat to corn crops, especially in regions with humid conditions. The disease manifests as black, tar-like spots on the leaves, which mar the plant and severely impact its overall health and yield. As the disease progresses, it causes premature leaf senescence — the final stage of leaf development — limiting photosynthesis, reducing kernel formation and ultimately lowering grain yield.

Attendees also heard about plans for the campus and visited buildings where groundbreaking research takes place to address some of the most pressing challenges in food systems, sustainability and environmental conservation.

“These types of meetings are very inspirational,” said Jonathan Hofstetter, president of the Wayne County commissioners. “The research taking place on the (Ohio State CFAES Wooster) campus is impressive. Having this type of organization in our backyard, one willing to work with us and interested in the community’s success, is simply amazing.”

CFAES Wooster fosters academic excellence and promotes local sustainability, food security and environmental stewardship.

Dan Starcher is the public communications coordinator for Wayne County.