About the Center

Eastern Virginia AREC was established in 1912 and serves Virginia's grain and soybean industry through research and educational programs leading to improved varieties and crop production practices. Our research objectives are to support Viginia's grain and soybean producers through applied agronomic research that enhances their bottom line, and to support the Virginia Tech small grain and soybean breeding programs. 

History of the AREC

The Eastern Virginia AREC was established at Williamsburg, Virginia in 1912 with an emphasis on forage crops. In 1950, the center was moved to Warsaw, Virginia and its focus gradually shifted to breeding, variety testing, and cultural practices for corn, soybean, and wheat. The center is now the main field testing location for the Virginia Tech small grain and soybean breeding programs. In 2025, the center added additional priorities to focus on the needs of local growers.

As the center moves toward 2030,  small grain and soybean breeding work continues; however, the center is now also focusing on applied research, return on investment, and real solutions focused on meeting the needs of growers in Eastern Virginia.