Agricultural Research and Extension Centers
Overview of the ARECs
The world-class research and extension experts of the Virginia Agricultural Experiment Station (VAES) are dedicated to developing and implementing research that addresses the growing needs, expectations, and forthcoming challenges and opportunities within society. VAES prioritizes knowledge creation by integrating advanced technological and scientific innovations to create efficiencies and foster sustainable economic growth. We are committed to translating knowledge into practical applications to protect and enhance agricultural and food systems. This approach includes agriculture production, management of natural and environmental resources, and advancements in life sciences.
VAES supports faculty both on campus and off campus at the Agricultural Research and Extension Centers (ARECs). This support spans across three separate colleges at Virginia Tech: the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, the College of Natural Resources and Environment, and the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine. Our dedicated faculty, students, and staff seated at the ARECs, along with faculty based at the main campus, serve Virginia communities with hands-on and experiential learning opportunities by delivering research and Extension programs at these sites.
These centers represent the commonwealth’s diversity and take advantage of the unique characteristics and challenges found in each location. They serve not only as field-research sites and field laboratories for undergraduate and graduate students, but also as program sites for producers, school groups, and the state's citizens.
Latest AREC News & Updates
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Study abroad program builds lasting food security partnerships in South Africa , articleStudents and faculty members partner with Cape Town communities through classwork, research, and campus fundraising, transforming a two-week study abroad program into sustained food security collaboration.
Date: 03.26.2026 - -
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‘Curious Conversations’ podcast: Michael Schwarz talks about the Chesapeake Bay’s blue catfish problem , articleSchwarz talked about the rapid invasion of blue catfish in the bay, the ecological and economic impacts, and the promising potential to turn this challenge into an opportunity.
Date: 03.23.2026 - -
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New agroclimate app delivers real-time climate and crop insights , articleDeveloped by researchers in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, the free web-based tool helps growers use satellite and weather data to optimize irrigation, fertilization, and harvest decisions.
Date: 02.25.2026 - -
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One week in a foster home dramatically improves shelter dogs’ lives , articleA 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: 01.27.2026 - -
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Winter weather: Blacksburg, D.C. campuses to resume normal operations Wednesday; other locations still affected , articleIn anticipation of potential wintry weather, Virginia Tech has put snow emergency routes on the Blacksburg campus in effect starting at 5 p.m. Friday. All state vehicles parked along the snow routes must also be moved during this time to ensure streets remain open for emergency use.
Date: 01.24.2026 - -
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Statewide impact
Researchers use scientific discoveries based on the best techniques of qualitative and quantitative analysis to address today’s most pressing agricultural and environmental issues. More powerfully, the partnership between VAES and VCE creates a highly effective means for communicating and teaching new techniques with instant and lasting impact in local communities.
