Major Focus:

Utilizing the latest advances in molecular biology and biotechnology, genomics, plant breeding, agronomy and entomology, scientists at the Texas AgriLife Research and Extension Center at Weslaco are developing next generation crops and sustainable production systems for the vegetable, citrus and sugarcane industries and for emerging highpriority markets such as biofuels and agri-medicine.

Mission:

Scientists at the Texas AgriLife Research and Extension Center at Weslaco are creating new, more efficient plants and sustainable production systems for food, energy and high-value products. Through the advancement of science with an understanding of the needs of business, the Center serves the regional, national and international interests of the Texas A&M System with programs in research, education and Extension.

Research Programs:

Plant Molecular Biology
Genetic Transformation
Variety Development & Breeding
Sustainable Production Systems

• Agronomy
• Entomology
• Physiology
• Pathology
• Water Utilization
• Soils and Nutrition

Special initiatives:

Food for Health
Rio Grande Basin Initiative
AgriMedicine Partnership

Center Director:

Dr. Michael Gould
Texas AgriLife Research and Extension Center
2415 East US Highway 83
Weslaco TX 78596;

or

Texas A&M University-Kingsville Citrus Center
312 N. International Blvd.
Weslaco TX 78596
Phones: (956) 968-5585 (AgriLife Research); (956) 968-2132 (TAMUK-CC)
Fax : (956) 968-0641 (AgriLife Research); (956) 969-0649 (TAMUK-CC)
E-mail: jmgould@ag.tamu.edu

Personnel:

About 100 full-time employees
57 Research; 13 Extension; 30 TAMUK

Established:

Since 1887, Texas AgriLife Research has been an integral part of the Texas A&M System. AgriLife Research is the state’s only agency dedicated to research and technology development in food, agriculture and natural resources. There are 13 AgriLife Research and Extension Centers serving the specific research needs of each region and for agricultural and urban citizens across the state. The AgriLife Center at Weslaco was established in 1923.

Facilities:

55,000 square feet (AgriLife Research) and 18,400 square feet (TAMUK) offices, labs, classrooms, auditorium, etc.
74,000 square feet (AgriLife Research) and 39,000 square feet (TAMUK) greenhouses, workshops, storerooms, sheds, etc.
360 acres (AgriLife Research) and 340 acres (TAMUK) cropland