Joshua Mott named cropping systems and organic production specialist
Mott looks forward to building resilient programs through statewide collaboration with growers and stakeholders.
Joshua Mott has joined Virginia Tech’s School of Plant and Environmental Sciences as an organic and cropping systems specialist with a research and extension appointment — bringing a hands-on approach and renewed focus on cropping systems, organic production and sustainable practices.
Based at the Southern Piedmont Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Mott began his tenure on August 10. Drawing on a foundation rooted in both research and outreach, he aims to foster statewide collaboration and support Virginia’s agricultural communities.
Mott earned his bachelor’s degree in sustainable agriculture from the University of Kentucky, then gained hands-on experience with the James River Soil and Water Conservation District. He later completed a Ph.D. in Crop and Soil Environmental Science from Virginia Tech and went on to serve as a research associate with Virginia Cooperative Extension in the Corn and Small Grains program.
His areas of research include agronomic and horticultural cropping systems, nutrient use efficiencies, controlled environment agriculture, and organic production. Through his extension programs, he aims to work directly with farmers to support their transition to USDA Certified Organic production through workshops, practical tools, and guidance regarding crop rotations, weed management, and livestock integration.
We caught up with him to learn more about his journey, vision, and what excites him most about this new chapter:
What inspired you to pursue this position at Virginia Tech?
“I believe that the even mix of applied research paired with extension and outreach drew me to this position. I enjoy being hands-on in my work and having direct interactions with extension agents and growers.”
What are you most looking forward to in this new role?
“The mandate for this program is relatively broad. There are too many opportunities to count. Overall, I am excited for the new systems we will encounter and seeing the Virginia farmers flourish.”
What have you found to be the most rewarding aspect of your research and extension experiences thus far?
“I believe that the work we do matters and so it’s incredibly rewarding to see my work utilized by farmers, policymakers, and other stakeholders.”
What previous experiences have best prepared you for this role?
“My work with VCE, as well as dealings in agronomy and horticulture, have given me the tools to create a program that is the perfect mix of innovation and application.”
What are your top priorities for the first year?
“As I’m currently in the developing stages of this program, my goal is to meet with as many growers and stakeholders across the state in order to ensure that I design research and extension programming that effectively meets their needs.”