December 2025
WEEKLY UPDATE
At the Farm Labor Issues Workshop, Ohio State University Extension and Central State University Extension educators collaborated as part of a Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) and OSU joint project focused on farm labor challenges and strategies. Participating educators represented Community and Economic Development (CED) and Agriculture and Natural Resources (ANR) programs across Ohio, including the Northeast, Southeast, and Northwest regions. Extension Highlights
Marcia Coleman, Northeast Region Community and Economic Development (CED) Educator, presents during the Farm Labor Issues Workshop.
Research Highlights
Corn Breeding and Crop Diversity Luke Farno, Research Assistant Professor
Luke Farno, Research Assistant Professor, reported a strong research year for the corn breeding program, with excellent performance from both the corn nursery and yield trials. Extensive self-pollinations and crosses were completed, creating a robust pipeline for next season’s evaluations. Harvest wrapped up in early November, and the team is now focused on post-harvest analysis, including ear imaging, data collection, and seed processing. Farno’s popcorn research also delivered promising results, with selected lines advancing to field trials next year. In addition, he completed the first year of the African Heritage Garden in collaboration with Clare Thorn, producing strong yields of okra, eggplant, egusi melon, sorghum, and gourds, along with ample seed for future research. The program continues to emphasize student engagement, with a student research assistant preparing to present a research poster at the upcoming ARD Symposium.
Luke Farno, Research Assistant Professor, Central State University, Agricultural Research and Development Program, Corn Breeding Research.
Upcoming Events
Starting Seeds Indoors – Cool Weather Crops When: Wednesday, February 5, 2026 | 6:00–7:30 p.m. Where: Emery Hall, Lower-Level Conference Room, Central State University, Wilberforce, OH Details: Learn to start seeds indoors, explore cool-weather crops, and take home a selection of seeds to grow your own garden. Ages: 18+ | Info: 937-939-1746 | seedtobloombotanicalgarden@centralstate.edu
Central State University is an equal opportunity provider. If you need reasonable accommodation or interpretation or translation services to participate in this event, please contact CSU Extension at 937-376-6568 at least 10 days prior to the event.
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