Virginia Agricultural Experiment Station

Virginia Agricultural Experiment Station (VAES)

As the 1862 land grant university of Virginia, VAES expands on the Hatch Act of 1887's mission to perform basic and applied research on agricultural, environmental, natural, and community resource issues related to the future needs of Virginia, the region, the nation, and the world.

The Virginia Agricultural Experiment Station (VAES) is the scientific research center of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Virginia Tech, encompassing various academic departments both on and off-campus, including the Agricultural Research and Extension Centers (ARECs). With over 350 scientists from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, College of Natural Resources and Environment, and Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, VAES collaborates with the Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) as part of Virginia’s Agency 229.

VAES, in partnership with the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), focuses on innovation in agriculture, food, and health through basic and applied research. This research aims to improve the quality of life for individuals and families and strengthen Virginia's social and economic health. By employing advanced qualitative and quantitative methods, VAES research supports Virginia’s animal, plant, and seafood industries, promotes natural resource conservation, and benefits consumers statewide.

AREC Field Day Calendar

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VAES Latest News & Updates

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One week in a foster home dramatically improves shelter dogs’ lives , article
A new study shows that a week away from the kennel may be one of the best stress-relievers a shelter dog can get — and pairing them with a familiar canine buddy when they return helps even more.
Date: Jan 27, 2026 -
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Wintry weather affects Virginia Tech campus operations; Blacksburg campus to open at 10 a.m. today , article
Date: Dec 04, 2025 -
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New research shows how farmers can be left dry by rainfall insurance , article
Small differences in rainfall data and grid size can lead to big discrepancies in insurance payouts, a new study finds, leaving some farmers uncovered.
Date: Oct 31, 2025 -

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Mary Burrows

Associate Dean for Research, Director of VAES

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Mary Burrows , bio