By Blake Jackson
Cornell University’s small grains breeding program has played an important role in strengthening agriculture and food systems both locally and globally. After 48 years of service, Dr. Mark Sorrells, Professor of Plant Breeding and Genetics at Cornell University, will retire at the end of this year, leaving behind a strong legacy.
The program is the only active small grains breeding effort in the Northeastern United States. Over many years, it has developed improved varieties of wheat, oats, barley, and rye that are higher yielding and more resistant to pests and diseases. These advancements have helped farmers in New York meet growing demand and improve their productivity.
Growing small grains in New York is challenging due to its humid climate, which increases the risk of fungal diseases and crop damage. However, Cornell scientists and extension specialists have supported farmers by developing solutions and better crop varieties suited to these conditions.
“Cornell has always been a huge resource for us,” said Kyle Gifford, President and Chief Operating Officer of The Birkett Mills. “Cornell has been instrumental in helping farmers to address disease and pest problems, have better varieties, and meet the growing demand for New York State-grown products.”
Dr. Sorrells has been a key leader in the program, adopting new technologies to improve plant breeding. From using early computers to applying modern tools like molecular genetics, genomic selection, and drones, he has helped bring innovation into agriculture.
“Progress in plant breeding has always been based on new knowledge and new technology, so when something has come along – computers, genomic selection, drones – we’ve jumped right into it,” said Dr. Mark Sorrells, Professor of Plant Breeding and Genetics at Cornell University.
During his career, Dr. Sorrells released or co-developed 27 new grain varieties and several germplasms, contributing significantly to crop improvement. His motivation comes from his farming background and a commitment to supporting farmers’ livelihoods.
“Agricultural systems are really fundamental to society. If people don’t have enough to eat, you can’t make progress on any other front,” he said. “Supporting the farmers and growers, here in New York and around the world, underpins everything we do.”
The program has made lasting contributions to agriculture and will continue to influence future innovations in crop production.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-giovanni1232
Categories: New York, Education, General