Sep 17, 2024

Virginia Tech celebrates 100 years of partnership with fruit and wine Industries

Virginia Tech marked the 100th anniversary of its Alson H. Smith Jr. Agricultural Research and Extension Center (AREC), which has played a critical role in supporting Virginia’s fruit and wine industries.

The center, located in Winchester, Virginia has been instrumental in addressing challenges such as climate change, insect infestations and chemical resistance in the state’s $2 billion fruit and wine sector.

Since its founding in 1921, the AREC has grown from a small lab into a facility with 25 full-time employees and 13 researchers. The center collaborates with growers, government agencies and industry partners to develop solutions that ensure the sustainability of Virginia’s tree fruit and wine grape industries.

“Over the past century, our researchers have worked on hundreds of projects that have produced new knowledge, influenced grower decisions, and delivered sustainable food,” said Kevin Rice, director of the AREC.

The AREC’s research has contributed to significant advances, including improved pest management techniques and methods for boosting crop yields.