Justin S. Calhoun starts Sept. 1 as a University of Missouri Extension state specialist in soils and cropping systems. He will be based at the Fisher Delta Research Center (FDRC) in southeastern Missouri near Portageville.

Calhoun will also be an assistant professor in the MU Division of Plant Science and Technology.

“Research at FDRC is key to the success of local producers. Justin brings great experience to the team, working with many different crops and soils,” said Shibu Jose, associate dean for research at the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR).

“Justin brings the necessary experience to further develop the soil and cropping system research and extension program at FDRC,” said Heike Bücking, director of the Division of Plant Science and Technology.

Calhoun has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Arkansas at Monticello and a master’s degree from Mississippi State University. He will receive his doctorate from MSU in December.

In his doctoral research, Calhoun evaluated herbicides and spray application techniques to mitigate herbicide resistance in weed species. He also studied weed control and growth in cotton, peanut, corn, soybean, wheat and non-crop systems.

“Dr. Calhoun’s extension and research program at FDRC will focus on improving soil fertility and pest management strategies for crops grown in southeast Missouri,” said Rob Kallenbach, CAFNR associate dean for extension. “This hire is a key part of our plan to double the value of Missouri agriculture by 2030.”

“Having the role of an extension specialist is one that I have dreamed of having since my introduction to university research and extension programs nearly 10 years ago,” says Calhoun. “I am excited to work alongside some of the best agronomic research and extension faculty in the world to provide Missouri producers with valuable information making their farm profitable and sustainable.”

You can reach Calhoun at jscgvf@umsystem.edu.