New England Plant, Soil & Water Laboratory Bldg., Orono, ME
Building organic matter in soil beds for People’s Garden, Orono, ME
Organic vegetable trials evaluating effects of different cover crops and biocontrol amendments, Newport, ME
Long-term potato cropping system trials evaluating effects of different crop management strategies in potato production, Presque Isle, ME
Potato harvest time, Presque Isle, ME
Organic vegetable trials evaluating effects of different mulches and soil amendments, St. Albans, ME
Mission
The mission of the USDA-ARS New England Plant, Soil, and Water Laboratory is to develop and transfer sustainable, environmentally sound management practices and cropping systems that improve crop productivity and economic viability, and reduce pest and disease problems for conventional and organic food production systems in the Northeast. Towards this mission, research is conducted to develop, evaluate, and understand biological and cultural soil and crop management practices, as well as integrated cropping systems, and their impacts on plant pathogens, soil microbiology, soil health, yield, profitability, and associated interactions. Research results are developed for transfer of up-to-date approaches and technologies to growers and consumers. The common goal and vision of these research and technology transfer programs is to enhance agricultural viability and rural economic vitality in conjunction with environmental stewardship.