College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences News
Data Scientists Uncovering Genes that Protect Alfalfa against Salinity Stress
Salinity is a growing critical threat to soils, water quality and food production worldwide. High levels of salts in water and soil interfere with plants’ abilities to take up the nutrients they need, create osmotic shock and ion accumulation in the plant...
Minor To Major: USU Will Be Offering A Drone Major This Fall
Drones are a growing technology with many uses. As some students at Utah State University started going through the drone minor program, they quickly realized there are many opportunities in the field.
Say Hello at USU
Mariela Luster, marketing student and intern with the College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences, came up with the idea for a simple way to re-connect with others after she returned to campus in January to find a lack of interaction between students.
Cheese Making: Where Dairy Meets Materials Science
To food scientists, cheese is more than just an ingredient for sandwiches or an appetizer. Cheese is chemistry, biology and physics all deliciously at work, and it’s big business in the dairy industry.
USU's Outdoor Recreation Archive Gains International Recognition
Utah State University’s Outdoor Recreation Archive, a collection of the outdoor industry’s catalogs and magazines, has grown from just a few documents gathered in 2018 to a one-of-a-kind collection that has gained national and international recognition.
The Best Loungewear for Cozying Up at Home
Amber Williams, a textile science lecturer at Utah State University, says fit, elasticity, color, and aesthetics are important, as these factors can really make an impact on how you feel wearing clothes, but you also want to make sure you're wearing fabri...
New Utah State Programs in Aviation Management Focus on Airport Operations and Drones
Utah State University’s Department of Aviation Technology and Technical Education (AVTE) has added a new bachelor’s degree paths in aviation management with emphasis options in unmanned aerial systems (aka, drones) and in aviation operations.
PSC Awarded $36,000 for Invasive Plant Species Research
The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food has awarded Utah State University’s Department of Plants, Soils and Climate a $36,000 grant for work on medusahead and invasive mustard species.
A Loss Written on the Land
To design the site, the tribe has partnered with an interdisciplinary group of students and professors from Utah State University’s Quinney College of Natural Resources and the university’s Department of Landscape Architecture and Environmental Planning. ...
'Best Case' Goals for Climate Warming Could Still Result in Massive Wildfire Risk
A newly published study finds even small increases in climate warming may result in significant increases in wildfire frequency and severity.
USU Student finds career path while making a difference through USU’s Equine Experience Program
In July of 2020, USU graduate student, Makenna Osborne, hosted a trail ride with a group of 12 veterans as part of her AmeriCorps experience with The Utah Higher Education AmeriCorps Network (UHEAN).
Agricultural Alumna Finds Success After Graduation
“What are your plans after college?” If this question doesn’t make you sweat a little, congratulations! You’re part of the few students who have a job lined out after graduation. If it does make you sweat, we’ve got some news for you.
CAAS Advisor Caisa Shoop Receives New Advisor Recognition
Advising students wasn’t where Caisa Shoop thought her path would lead when she started pursuing a degree in family and consumer sciences education.
Celebrating a Career and a Retirement
David Forrester grew up working on the family farm in Smithfield, Utah and joined the Utah State University community in 1979. Aside from a brief absence to work the family farm, he remained at the university until his retirement at the close of 2020.
The National Center for Agricultural Literacy is Creating a Certificate Program for Teachers
Though agriculture is central to life, puts science and other STEM subjects into practice, and is tied to economics, business and social sciences, Americans get little formal education about it...
USU Undergrad Researchers Study Where Sagebrush Grows - and Heals
True-blooded Aggies love the spot where the sagebrush grows and they may have reasons to love it even more, say Utah State University undergraduate researchers David Suisse and Kayla Wasden Suisse.
Is Dried Fruit Healthy?
It depends. Sometimes. Kinda. Learn what factors nutritionists say you should consider before noshing on a bag of dried apricots.
USUE Welding Program
As their website states, Utah State University Eastern is Utah’s “best kept secret”. With low tuition rates, one-on-one instruction, and exciting student athletic events, USUE is a great place to start your secondary education.
Seeds Planted on the Path to Becoming Professor Creech
Although Earl Creech grew up on what his father called a “true” family farm — no hired help from outside the family and no one doing an off-farm job for income — he didn’t know until he was in college that being a scientist who helps farmers could be a jo...
Department of Aviation and Technical Education Impacts CTE Programs
In case you missed it, on July 1, 2020 a new department was launched at Utah State University; the Department of Aviation and Technical Education.
3D Printing Made its Way to USU Eastern
Utah State University Eastern broke new ground this past fall with the launch of the additive manufacturing (also known as 3D printing) certification course.
Dustless Technologies Plays Pivotal Role in Training Future Generations
Josie Gayler’s interest in design and 3D printing started in high school after taking a drafting class where the instructor assembled a 3D printer.
Increasing Raising Beef Could Help Utah's Economy, According To New Study
In a recent study by the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food and Utah State University finds that Utah has room for growth in the Utah beef processing and sales businesses.
USU Vaccine Expert Weighs in on COVID-19 Vaccine, Debunks Myths
Utah State University Infectious Disease, Vaccines and Antiviral Chemotherapy professor Bart Tarbet has firsthand experience creating and testing vaccines. Tarbet is astounded at how quickly medical science has moved with the COVID-19 vaccine.
Research Suggests Potential for Growth in Utah's Beef Industry
In a report released Jan. 20, 2021, researchers from Utah State University Extension and the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF) assess the potential for expanding meat processing capabilities in Utah and examine the potential demand for Utah b...
ROTC and NDFS Collaboration
During the fall 2020 semester, students in Utah State University’s Advanced Dietetics Practicum course taught members of the Army and Air Force Reserve Office Training Corps (ROTC) about the importance of food and nutrition for optimal health and physical...
Cory Griffey Accepts Under Armour Internship
Fewer than 1% of applicants are accepted into Under Armour’s internship program. Cory Griffey, a student from our Outdoor Product Design and Development (OPDD) program, is now among that small, select group and recently accepted an internship with Under A...
Opportunities on the Path to Becoming Professor Christensen
Professor Keith Christensen has been promoted to the rank of professor in the Department of Landscape Architecture and Environmental Planning.
Balance in the Chaos
We know that a healthy diet is part of the recipe for good health. But how do you put that into daily practice when your life is turned upside down?
Typhoons in East Asia May Have Set the Stage for Huge Windstorm in Utah
Hurricane-force winds that struck Utah in early September may have been stoked by an unexpected source: typhoons in the western Pacific.
Antiviral Research for Master of Public Health Student
Ashley Scheesley, a Utah State University master of veterinary public health student, is interested in what causes animals to get sick, zoonotic diseases, and how habitat destruction increases the number of infectious diseases.
Professor Jennifer MacAdam Named Fellow of the American Society of Agronomy
Jennifer MacAdam, professor of plant physiology and forage production in Utah State University’s Department of Plants, Soils, and Climate has been named a fellow of the American Society of Agronomy.
Tyson Sorensen Honored with USDA Early-Career Teaching Award
Tyson Sorensen, an assistant professor of agricultural education, was one of just three educators in the country recently recognized with an early-career teaching award from United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
2020 - 2022 William C. Winder Professor
Dr. Marie Walsh of the nutrition, dietetics, and food science program has been selected as the William C. Winder Professor for 2020-2022.
PSC Graduate Student Receives Grant
Danielle Theimann received a grant for identification of effective cover crop varieties and integrated management practices for weedy and invasive plant suppression in the Western United States.
Utah State University Veterinarians Honored by Utah Veterinary Medical Association
Two Utah Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory leaders and Utah State University School of Veterinary Medicine faculty members were recently honored by the Utah Veterinary Medical Association (UVMA).
Aggie Ice Cream Peppermint Bark
World’s collide with the release of Aggie Ice Cream and Aggie Chocolate Factory’s Peppermint Bark ice cream, sure to satisfy your holiday cravings!
Potential Single-dose COVID-19 Vaccine Trial Published in Nature
A possible vaccine to protect against the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19 has been tested and found effective and safe in several animal models by a team of scientists at the Rega Institute in Leuven, Belgium.
How Do You Trace a Century of the Great Outdoors? Look at the Catalogs
Created as a joint effort between Utah’s State University’s Special Collections & Archives and the Outdoor Product Development and Design undergraduate program, the ORA is, in simple terms, a research collection of outdoor recreation history.
CAAS Responds to COVID-19
Students and faculty quickly became more creative in the spring to finish the semester strong.
Changing the World, One Potato at a Time
"I was just looking at that pile and thinking there wasn’t really a point in wasting all of those potatoes on cows, so I took a picture and posted it on Facebook and told people to come grab some. I was definitely not anticipating that post going viral"
Farmers Feeding Utah donates food to 1500 Families
Utah State University’s Hunger Solutions Institute, and combined efforts of donors and volunteers, managed to pull off “miracles” to help struggling Utahns on both ends of the food supply chain.
Our Food System and the Impact of COVID-19
Utah State University’s Hunger Solutions Institute, and combined efforts of donors and volunteers, managed to pull off “miracles” to help struggling Utahns on both ends of the food supply chain.
CAAS Responds to COVID-19
College of Agriculture Students and faculty quickly became more creative in the spring to finish the semester strong and continue with involvement in the fall semester.
Aggies Win Smart Snacks Competition
It's snack time! USU students used their creativity, food science knowledge and a lot of work to win the Institute of Food Technologists Smart Snacks for Kids competition.
Research Goes On in Spite of (and Because of) the Pandemic
The new problems caused by COVID-19 did not do away with the challenges our researchers were tackling back in March. Our faculty, staff, and students have continued to do impactful research.
Institute for Antiviral Research
Researchers at USU’s Institute for Antiviral Research have been at work since February testing antiviral compounds and licensed drugs for their effectiveness against the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Changing the World, One Potato at a Time
The COVID-19 pandemic put a cloud of uncertainty over the entire agriculture industry, and Ryan Cranney and his partners in the 20,000-acre Cranney Farms in Oakley, Idaho.
NDFS Graduate Received Recognition for a Presentation
NDFS graduate student Namhyeon Park received recognition for his presentation about studying microbial properties through the Institute of Food Technologists.
USU Welcomes First Dual-Degree Doctoral Student from Taiwan
Li-Ting (Mila) Yen is the first student simultaneously working toward dual doctoral degrees from USU and National Chung Hsing University. She studies soils and environmental sciences.
Zoonosis And One Health
It’s estimated that more than 6 out of every 10 known infectious diseases in people can be spread from animals, and that 3 out of every 4 new or emerging infectious diseases in people come from animals.
Aggie Creamery Makes Gold-medal Cheeses
Relying on their two chief cheeses, Utah State University's Aggie Creamery earned gold medal rankings at the Utah Cheese Awards in August.
Lacie Peterson Named a Fellow of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
Lacie Peterson, clinical associate professor in the Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food Sciences (NDFS) has been named a fellow of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND).
Aggie Ice Cream: Pints
Our award-winning ice cream has over 20 plus flavors, watch this video if you'd like to drool all over them.
You Can Become
Find your place in the College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences at Utah State University and pursue your passion! Our college is unique. With our diverse range of academic offerings, we have something for everyone.
Become a Helicopter Pilot at USU
Students will train in R22 Beta II, R44 Raven II, and a flight training simulator. Possible career paths could include scenic tours, EMS, aerial firefighting, wildlife study, and more.
Teens, preteens copilot planes as Girls Aviation Program wraps up
4-H Cache Makers and the Utah State University Women in Aviation Society are teaching science, technology, engineering and math in aviation to young girls as part of a program to spark their interest in flying aircraft.
Student Research Symposium Goes Virtual
Students and faculty participated in the Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences Student Research Symposium at the close of the summer.
The Colorado River's Water Supply is Predictable Owing to Long-term Ocean Memory
A team of scientists at Utah State University has developed a new tool to forecast drought and water flow in the Colorado River several years in advance.
Xeriscaping North Sanpete High will save water
Utah State University’s department of landscape architecture and environmental planning has agreed to bring down faculty and students to do xeriscaping of the property.
Ancient seagoing reptile renamed ‘Jaws of Death’ likely crunched turtle shells like popcorn
The reptile, whose fossilized remains were discovered in 1975 by a teen who reported the find to his science teacher, had originally been named Prognathodon stadtmani, Utah State University said in a statement.
How beavers became North America's best firefighter
Joe Wheaton, a geomorphologist at Utah State University, stumbled upon a lush pocket of green glistening within the burn zone—a beaver wetland that had withstood the flames. Yet no scientist had ever rigorously studied the phenomenon.
Is A Grain-Free Diet Deadly For Dogs? Gephardt Digs Into The Science
Willow, a standard poodle, was just five years old when she died, leaving her guardians, Katerina and Mike Hicken, shocked. The KSL Investigators took Willow’s story to Utah State University’s Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences Department.
Former Show Horse Starts Second Career in Equine Assisted Therapy at USU
The Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies (EAAT) program at Utah State University recently welcomed “Celine,” a retired show horse donated to the program by members of the National Snaffle Bit Association (NSBA) Foundation.
Aggie Ice Cream can now be shipped anywhere in the US
Big news for USU Aggies everywhere! Aggie Ice Cream can now be shipped directly to your door, anywhere in the United States!
Granite Monument for USU Van Crash
A monument near Box Elder is dedicated to eight Utah State University agriculture students and an instructor who were killed in a 2005 van crash
Gene-Edited Livestock 'Surrogate Sires' Successfully Made Fertile
For the first time, scientists have created pigs, goats and cattle that can serve as viable “surrogate sires” that could speed the spread of desirable characteristics by male animals that produce sperm carrying only the genetic traits of donor animals.
Alumni Spotlight: Natalie Cullum at Orvis
Natalie Cullum, an OPDD alum and Product Design at Orvis shared her experience transitioning from college life to working in the industry, what her day to day looks like, and things she wished she would have known.
USU Salt Lake Center Opening Campus Greenhouse to Benefit Students and Refugee Farmers
In the culmination of a six-year project, new on-campus greenhouse is set to open at the Utah State University Salt Lake Center this fall. The 1,800-square-foot facility will highlight and strengthen the horticulture program at the Salt Lake Center.
History of Gear Series: Dr. Rachel Gross on the Evolution of Outdoor Clothing
Dr. Rachel Gross shares her insights into the evolution of outdoor apparel and what clothing says about those who wear it. Dr. Gross argues that outdoor clothing, known for its performance, also represents values and communicates identity.
Resourceful Students Shift to Virtual Product Competitions
The Moonola team from Utah State University won first place in the Smart Snacks for Kids competition.
The State of Outdoor Ecommerce with Vista Outdoor
Vista Outdoor owns brands like Camp Chef, Camelbak, Bell, and Giro. Craig McLaughlin, Director of eCommerce and Digital Marketing at Vista Outdoor shares his insights.
The State of Outdoor Ecommerce with Vista Outdoor
Vista Outdoor owns brands like Camp Chef, Camelbak, Bell, and Giro. Craig McLaughlin, Director of eCommerce and Digital Marketing at Vista Outdoor shares his insights.
AIM ImmunoTech Inc. Decreases SARS-CoV-2 Infectious Viral Yields by 90% Using New In Vitro Model; Supports Further Testing of Ampligen as an Intranasal Prophylactic to Prevent COVID-19
AIM ImmunoTech Inc. is pleased to announce that it has identified an effective in vitro model at The Institute for Antiviral Research at Utah State University for testing Ampligen.
History of Gear Series: Rainy's Premium Flies
Rainy Riding started Rainy's Premium Flies in 1971 in Wellsville, Utah. Rainy Riding learned how to fish when she was five years old from her grandfather. Eventually, she'd learn to tie flies and help teach fly tying at Utah State University.
Greater Good Upcycling Product with a Purpose
Jaimus Tailor, a London-based designer, shares his experience building his latest work, Greater Goods, a creative project utilizing upcycled sportswear and outdoor gear to create new product.
Animal Nutrition Research Earns National Recognition
Master’s degree student Lexie Padilla and Assistant Professor Fernanda Batistel in USU’s Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences study the function of the rumen to help livestock producers save money on feed and to improve the environment.
History of Gear Series: Hap Klopp, Former President of North Face
Hap Klopp in a presentation with famed architect, Buckminster Fuller Former President of the North Face, Hap Klopp, shared his insights into the early days of the company.
The Future of Feathers
Matthew Betcher, Creative Director for Allied Feather and Down shares his insights into down versus synthetics, the importance of traceability and transparency in supply chains, and the future of down.
Examining Nutrition Education Programs for Refugees in the United States
Refugees face many changes in purchasing and preparing nutritious food for their families upon relocation. Nutrition education can be an important part of improving nutrition and health for refugees.
History of Gear Series: Springbar Tents
Utah's tent-making history can be traced back to Arthur Jack Kirkham's decision to buy a tent and awning company based in Utah. From that decision, Kirkham invented the Springbar Tent and championed Utah gear making for decades to come.
COVID Changes to the Motorsports Industry
KLIM is part of Teton Outfitters Global Human Resources Director at Teton Outfitters, Sandi Landon, shares the state of the motorsports industry, how the company has adapted to COVID, and how the pandemic has affected her role in recruiting.
History of Gear Series: Mountain Safety Research (MSR)
Bruce Johnson shares the history of Mountain Safety Research (MSR) and founder, Larry Penberthy who brought rigorous testing practices to the climbing industry.
Alumni Spotlight: Veronica Villhard, Under Armour
Veronica Villhard (Class of 2019) shares her experience as a Footwear Innovation Designer at Under Armour and how she's adapting as a designer in a COVID world.
History of Gear Series: DownHome
In the little town of Arcata, California, it only took two gear makers, Chuck Kennedy and Denice Hermann to create the spark that would lead to this small town becoming a gear hot spot and the early home of DownHome sleeping bags.
History of Gear Series: Hot Spots of Gear
Across North America, in the 20th century, influential product designers and companies sprung up in various regions, becoming hot spots for gear. Bruce Johnson shares the history of gear hubs like Boulder, Seattle, San Francisco, and Arcata, California.
History of Gear Series: Daleboot, Utah's Custom Ski Boot Maker
Mike Sheets, Sales Manager for Utah's custom ski boot maker, Daleboot, shares the history of the company's innovative founder, Mel Dalebout and the influence of the company on the ski industry.
Puerto Rico Outdoor Economic Development Panel
Dr. Andrew Deceuster joined government representatives from the State of Utah and Puerto Rico in a recent webinar to discuss opportunities to strengthen and grow the outdoor economy in Puerto Rico.
New Department Head Named for Landscape Architecture and Environmental Planning
College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences’ Dean Ken White is pleased to announce Associate Professor Keith Christensen as the new head of the Department of Landscape Architecture and Environmental Planning.
David Hole, On Feeding The World, Tuesday's Access Utah
From Utah State Magazine, "In the parched black desert of northeast Jordan, archaeologists recently unearthed a stone hearth containing loaves of flatbread more than 14,000 years old.
History of Gear Series: Jack Stephenson's Warmlite
Bruce Johnson, gear historian, shares the history of outdoor industry pioneer, Jack Stephenson and his company Warmlite. Stephenson, an aerospace engineer, brought technical materials, aerodynamic shapes, and an innovative approach to product design.
Moleaer collaborating with USU team for NASA space farming project
Utah State University is using Moleaer’s nanobubble generators in studies for providing astronauts with freshly grown crops.
Here’s why COVID-19 made it harder to find beef in Utah grocery stores
Last month — in an effort to maintain supply — grocery stores in Utah put limits on the amount of beef customers could buy in one shopping trip.
History of Gear Series: Rivendell Mountain Works
Bruce Johnson, gear historian, shares the history and impact of little known brand, Rivendell Mountain Works on the latest History of Gear Series. Innovations in the backpacking space can be traced back to this little brand.
Doctoral Student Receives 2020 USDA–NIFA–AFRI Merit Award
Ana Silva, a doctoral student in the Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences (ADVS), recently received the 2020 USDA–NIFA–AFRI Merit Award.
Growing Up in Frostline Kits
Trent Bush, a Senior Creative from companies like Burton, Mountain Hardwear, Black Diamond, and now Spyder, shares his experiences with his dad working for Frostline Kits in Boulder, CO.
Local Industrial Designer Shares Journey to the Industry
Steve Puertas, a Senior Industrial Designer with a local outdoor cooking company, Blackstone Products, shared his experience getting into product design and what excites him about working in the outdoor cooking space.
Gene-Editing in Animal Agriculture Task Force Established
Recognizing the potential for gene editing to increase food security and safety, scientists and industry leaders will map out recommendations for regulating this emerging genomic technology in animal agriculture with appropriate safeguards and procedures....
USU Aviation Makes Adjustments for COVID-19 and is Back in the Air
Students in the aviation program at USU were stuck in a “holding pattern” when the university response to COVID-19 included temporarily suspending training flights and instruction until appropriate safety measures could be developed.
History of Gear Stories: Frostline Kits
Bruce Johnson, gear historian, shares his insights on the history of Frostline Kits, a company built on the idea of consumers sewing together their own gear. Frostline grew out of influential gear company, Gerry Mountain Sports in Boulder, Colorado.
USU Academic Advisors bring home the gold
Two Utah State University academic advisors received awards from the National Academic Advising Association for their work in academic counseling.
Former REI CFO and Aggie Alum Reflects on Time in Industry
Brad Johnson, former CFO of REI and Lands' End shares his background working in senior leadership positions, his time studying at Utah State, and his current role teaching at Utah State University.
Aviation Professor Wesemann Receives Annual Teaching Award
Better known as "Professor Baron" in the Aviation Technology program, Wesemann has been teaching in USU's College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences since January 2015.
From Buckskin to Gore-Tex
Dr. Rachel Gross, professor of history and gear historian, shares her insights on the outdoor industry within the larger context of historic events, the basis of her upcoming book, "From Buckskin to Goretex."
Outdoor Trends in the Age of COVID
Jeanine Pesce, Founder of Range, shares her insights on the impacts of COVID on the future of work, how trends are changing due to the pandemic, and how product will be designed and developed.
History of Gear Series: Holubar
In the lastest History of Gear Series, gear historian, Bruce Johnson shares the story of Roy and Alice Holubar, outdoor pioneers and founders of Holubar.
Dave Gibson on Freelancing in the Age of COVID
Dave Gibson, an industrial designer, freelancer, and faculty member at Wenzhou-Kean University shared his thoughts on the COVID crisis, his experience leaving China during the pandemic, and the future of freelance work.
Farmers Feeding Utah identifies Navajo Nation for Miracle Project
Farmers Feeding Utah campaign identified its first Miracle Project, getting Utah lamb to several Utah chapters of the Navajo Nation in Southeastern Utah who have been devastated by the coronavirus pandemic and are hurting for food.
History of Gear Series: The Yak Works & Rivendell Mountain Works
Don Wittenberger and Eric Hardee of the Yak Works and Rivendell Mountain Works share their insights on the latest History of Gear Series about soft pack design and development and the influence of the Yak Works and Rivendell on the industry.
DPS Skis CEO Talks Manufacturing During COVID
Alex Adema, CEO of DPS Skis in Salt Lake City, shares some of his insights into the state of the ski industry as well as US manufacturing and how they've adapted to producing protective equipment to frontline healthcare workers.
History of Gear Series: Alan Wenker, Vintage Backpack Collector
Alan Wenker, backpacking enthusiast and collector talks about the history of backpacks over time, why he has over fifty packs in his collection, and the evolution of gear.
Under Armour Senior Creative on Staying Creative During COVID
John Acevedo, Principle Design Ambassador at Under Armour shared his insights and perspective as a senior creative on the impacts of COVID on the industry and how he's staying creative during these uncertain times.
USU Students Provide Food to Aid Area Pantries
Students from Utah State University are providing food at the University’s Student Nutrition (SNAC) to individuals and families to aid area food pantries. This included harvesting excess fruit that would otherwise go to waste.
Abby L. Marlatt First Faculty for Domestic Sciences
Abby L. Marlatt was on the first faculty of the Utah Agricultural College (UAC) and fostered study of the Domestic Sciences in a single, barely equipped room in the basement of the Main Building.
History of Gear Stories: Gerry Mountain Sports
Outdoor gear historian, Bruce Johnson, shares the history of one of the most influential outdoor companies, Gerry Mountain Sports, founded by Gerry and Ann Cunningham in 1946.
Specialized's Response Amid COVID-19
Specialized HR Business Partner, Lena Laakso gave a brief virtual presentation sharing her thoughts on the state of the outdoor industry amid COVID-19, how companies and employees are responding and adapting, and her perspective from Human Resources.
Former Stance Employee Shares Lessons on Rebounding After Layoffs
Christian Schrader, a product designer and manager shares his journey to the outdoor industry, his work as a creative in the outdoors, and lessons he's learned being recently let go from Stance due to the impacts of COVID-19 on the business.
History of Gear Series: Bruce "Old Gear" Johnson -- History of Gear Project
In the new History of Gear Series, Bruce "Old Gear" Johnson shares his work documenting the history of the industry. Johnson has built the History of Gear Project, a website documenting the history of key individuals and brands that built the industry.
Paul Thallner, CEO at High Peaks Group Speaks on Resiliency
Thallner spoke with faculty member, Andrea Olsen about topics ranging from team effectiveness to mindfulness and how to ultimately develop resiliency professionally.
Taking a Virtual Leap: Landscape Architecture Professor Helps Design Studio Transition Online
Due to unprecedented events resulting from the spread of COVID-19, faculty at USU and colleges and universities across the country faced the challenge of moving their classes online in just a matter of days.
KEEN Footwear Hosts Information Session
Andrew Eastman, a Senior Recruiter for Portland-based KEEN Footwear, visited USU and hosted an information session on internship and full-time opportunities with the company.
Utah State University Antiviral Researchers at Work on Coronavirus with NIH Support
Researchers at Utah State University’s Institute for Antiviral Research are at work testing antiviral compounds and licensed drugs for their effectiveness against the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), the cause of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Cotopaxi VP of Design Shares Employment Insights
Evie Moe, Vice President of Design at Cotopaxi visited students in the Outdoor Product Design & Development program at Utah State University to talk about how to best prepare to enter the workforce.
Senior Innovation Leader Speaks on Pushing Boundaries
Nick Cienski, the principle creative at Under Armour for all things on the innovation team, visited campus and shared a wealth of experiences from his time at various companies including Salomon, Helly Hansen, Arc’teryx, and currently Under Armour.
Compromise, Competition, and Collaboration: Conflict Resolution 2020
During a three-part seminar, members of the SVM faculty and interested students received instruction from Chris Chapman and Clair Canfield. Conflict resolution was taught using VOCAB as an acronym.
USU Moab to expand tech offerings
Utah State University’s Moab campus will offer several new programs over the next few years that cater to the local population’s economic and workforce needs, according to USU Marketing Manager Loren Miller.
Jaybird Founder Speaks on Creativity, Fulfillment, and Making Product that Matters
Students recently met with and heard a presentation from Judd Armstrong, the founder of Jaybird and pioneer in wireless headphone technology, which recently sold for upwards to $100 million.
Dave Gibson Speaks to New Student Designers
Aggie alum, Dawson Westenskow spoke to students in the OPDD program about his experience in product management and as a sustainability consultant. He also shared what it was like working for companies like Thule, REI, and Oboz.
Women in Agriculture: Feed Your Career
USU’s Western Equestrian Team has been a top competitor in the region for more than a decade. In recent years, the USU equine science program has developed immensely, making hosting a possibility.
Animal Science Student Recognized at International Conference for Cystic Fibrosis Research
Iuri Perisse, a doctoral student in Utah State University's Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, was recently recognized for having the best student poster at the International Embryo Technology Society’s annual conference.
USU Partners with Outdoor Industry Association to Launch Outdoor Continuing Education
Utah State University and the Outdoor Industry Association partner to create an online certificate and sustainability education for the outdoor industry.
Students Tour Malouf, Industry Leader in Sleep Products
During a tour of sleep products giant, Malouf, OPDD students learned the details of product development from Kyle Robertson, director of product development for the company.
Lifetime Designer Preps Students on Interviewing
Frank Clegg, a senior industrial designer at Lifetime Products, visited juniors and seniors to discuss career readiness and how to prepare for an interview.
Primaloft Educates Students About Insulation
Students in the Textile Science class learned hands on about synthetic insulation from Travis West, a product marketing associate from materials innovator, Primaloft.
Product Development Brings Design to Life
While designers are traditionally recognized as being the creators of innovative, quality products, Cori Williams, a senior product developer at Cotopaxi, visited campus to share how vital developers are to bringing product to market.
Aggies Participate in Outdoor Retailer Snow Show
OPDD students were invited to attend and participate in the Outdoor Retailer show in Denver, CO where they, along with faculty, hosted presentations, panels, and workshops as well as provided repair and textile repurposing services to show attendees.
Beyond Ramps & Buses: Studying Obstacles to Community Living for People with Disabilities
USU's faculty members Keith Christensen and Ziqi Song were recently awarded a $2.5 million grant to examine community planning and policies throughout communities on Utah’s Wasatch Front and the participation of individuals with disabilities.
USU OPDD Students Develop Pack Concepts in Design Sprint with Local Company, Rose Anvil
Local leather goods company, Rose Anvil, recently approached a team of OPDD students about a design challenge. The students were tasked to develop a backpack concept that fits the brand and will help the company expand into new categories and markets.
Blackstone Industrial Designer Talks Portfolio Creation with Design Students
Steve Puertas, a senior industrial designer for outdoor cooking company Blackstone Products, spoke to OPDD students about portfolio building and how to craft a portfolio that shows the value of the designer.
USU Extension Co-hosts Public Hemp Seminar
USU Extension Agriculture and Natural Resources Department and the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF) host Utah’s first ever public hemp seminar.
ICON Industrial Designer Talks Portfolio Design with Students
Senior Industrial Design, Chris Nascimento visited campus to speak with students about his role at ICON Health & Fitness, his experience as a designer, and what makes a great portfolio.
USU Economists Bring Home Top Honors from National Conference
To earn her doctoral degree, Tatiana Drugova would ultimately travel halfway around the world and complete her graduate studies in field that was entirely new to her.
Inspired and Inspiring: Helen Lower Simmons
Helen enrolled in college in 1948, and things she learned even during that first quarter in Jean Richards Dance’s Clothing and Personality course shaped how she later taught her own classes at Logan High School.
Dave Gibson Speaks to New Student Designers
Dave Gibson, the owner of Dave Gibson Creative spoke to students covering topics ranging from why outdoor gear is unique to design, his experience working as a freelance designer, and his life as a designer in China.
REI Talks Product Development at USU
Colin Quinn, a product developer from Seattle-based REI, visited aspiring outdoor product students to share his thoughts on product development as a career and his experience at REI.
Soils Science Graduate Student Earns National Research Award
Idowu Atoloye, a student in USU's Department of Plants, Soils and Climate, was awarded the Nelson Yield-Limiting Factors Graduate Student Scholarship by the American Society of Agronomy at its annual conference in November.
Kinetic Fabric Explores New Product Applications with Student Design Sprint
Students from OPDD partnered with the team from Kinetic Fabrics to identify new applications for their innovative materials. Zach Decker, the founder of Kinetic, was interested in developing new applications with students.
Product Testing for Product Designers
Every product bought and sold has been tested or met safety standards in one way or another. Aaron Campbell, a Field Engineer with product testing equipment producer, Instron, spoke to students about product testing standards and processes.
Nomatic Director of Industrial Design Talks the Importance of Portfolios
Nomatic Director of Industrial Design, Evan Howard, taught students the importance of portfolio building and what it takes to create a portfolio that highlights the value of a designer.
OPDD Students Host Workshop During Salt Lake Design Week
As a part of Salt Lake Design Week, students from Outdoor Product Design and Development (OPDD) partnered with local design firm, Espiritu Design, and the Industrial Design Association of Utah (IDAU) to host a workshop focused on rapid prototyping.
Package Design Sprint and Workshop
Package designers from local companies hosted a workshop and design sprint for OPDD students focused on package design.
Preserving a Legacy of Outdoor Products History
A unique university collaboration between Library Special Collections and Outdoor Product Design & Development is preserving the history of the outdoor industry.
A Life in Tableaus Presented in Inaugural Professor Lecture
Biographies usually have chapters, but if you are a Quebec-born artist you might call them tableaus, “Living scenes that depict important moments of my life,” said Caroline Levoie at her Oct. 29 Inaugural Professor Lecture.
Plant Science Students Earn Top Honors
Students in Utah State University’s Department of Plants, Soils and Climate (PSC) earned several awards at an international conference hosted by the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS), including Alyssa Palmer and Anthony Whaley.
Equine Program Receives Funding for Veterans Adaptive Riding Initiative
Utah State University’s equine program recently launched the Veterans Adaptive Riding Initiative, a special project focused on the benefits of equine interaction for disabled veterans and service members.
Cotopaxi Designer & Aggie Alumni Returns to Speak to Aspiring Designers
Ben Doxey, a USU alumni and former OPDD student returned to speak to freshmen in the OPDD program. Doxey works as an apparel designer for Salt Lake City-based outdoor product company, Cotopaxi.
Students and Faculty Visit Portland Outdoor Industry
Students and faculty were invited to attend and present at the Functional Fabric Fair in Portland, Oregon. While there, the program toured companies including Under Armour, Nike, Adidas, Columbia Sportswear, and Keen.
USU LAEP Students' Studio Project Receives Second Statewide Award
During the Fall 2018 semester, students in the Department of Landscape Architecture and Environmental Planning’s (LAEP) Urban Theory and Design studio, led by Caroline Lavoie, completed a project with the City of Ogden.
Students Learn Product Design & Development on Tour of ICON Health & Fitness
Students met with designers and toured local company and fitness leader, ICON Health and Fitness. The tour included conversations with designers and developers as well as a glimpse into how ICON prototypes their products.
Under Armour Executive Talks Design at USU
Kasey Jarvis, the Chief Design Officer for Under Armour, offered an opportunity for students to get a glimpse of what the design world is really like from the lowest level designer to senior executive.
Profile: Capt. Stacie Anderson
A graduate from the 2018 Class of the WIMU Veterinary Medicine Program, Anderson is fulfilling a family legacy of military service while working her dream job.
K9 Carts 2019 Annual Veterinary Medicine Scholarship Winner
Congratulations to Lilly Beaman, winner of the K9 Carts 2019 Veterinary Medicine Scholarship! This national scholarship was awarded based on volunteer efforts and community service. Applicants also shared a video raising awareness of their cause.
Students Design Innovative Swimwear with Local Company
Students helped designers from local swimwear design company Nani Swimwear, develop new product concepts. Students spent the afternoon in a “design sprint” to rapidly create new product concepts and prototypes for potential production and sale.
Plant Scientists Build on Wheat Research with $1.9 Million NIFA Grant
Utah State University Associate Professors Jennifer Reeve and Earl Creech were recently awarded more than $1.9 million by the USDA’S National Institute of Food and Agriculture for their ongoing research on organic dryland wheat.
Business of the Backcountry: Product Line Management at Backcountry.com
Andrew Fletcher, Head of Owned Brands, and Alicia Applegate, Product Line Manager, from eCommerce leader Backcountry.com spoke to OPDD students about the opportunities to work in product management.
Honors for USU Agricultural Education at Regional Conference
A corps of USU agricultural education students and faculty recently attended the Western Region Conference of AAAE in Anchorage, Alaska, and brought home top honors for their research.
USU's School of Applied Sciences, Technology and Education is Divided and Growing
Under the new administrative structure, Lawver will oversee programs that train future secondary school teachers of family and consumer sciences, technology and engineering, agriculture, and business education.
The Business of the Outdoors: Browning Product Management
Brian Hobert, Product Line Manager for Browning visited the OPDD program to gives students a glimpse into the day to day of bringing product to market.
Students Develop New Products in Local Design Spring
Designers from local consumer products company, Little Unicorn, joined students from the OPDD program to develop new products over the course of an afternoon.
Virtual Reality and the Future of Design
Virtual reality (VR) isn’t the wave of the future. It’s now. VR allows us to immerse ourselves in another world without leaving the comfort of our homes.
PSC Student Named UServe Utah's August Member of the Month
USU's plant, soils and climate systems student Josh Martin was selected as the August 2019 UServe Utah's Member of the Month.
Soil is Not Dirt
This summer, Emma Thompson participated in international competition at the 21st World Congress of Soil Science in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil. She judged individually and with a team representing the U.S.
Students Present Summer Research at Annual Symposium
The Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences Summer Student Research Symposium provides students an opportunity to showcase the research projects they have worked on throughout the summer.
Student Founded LIT Outdoors Smashes Kickstarter Goal
Utah outdoor startup, LIT Outdoors, raised over $175,000 on Kickstarter with the help of Outdoor Product Design and Development (OPDD) alum and product designer, Riley Hughes.
Student Spotlight: Doug Hintze
During OPDD Student Doug Hintze’s time in the program, his love of footwear, as well as the knowledge and skills he developed in a footwear design course, led him to a summer internship with Salt Lake City-based company, KURU.
State Support Bolsters Workforce Development Programs by OPDD
The Department of Applied Sciences, Technology, and Education received close to $100,000 in grant funding through the Talent Ready Utah grant program, for the purpose of growing talent pipelines to the outdoor and manufacturing industries in Utah.
Therapists Visit USU for Hippotherapy Training
Utah State University hosted an American Hippotherapy Association (AHA) course for licensed physical therapists, occupational therapists and speech language pathologists who use hippotherapy in treating clients.
Aggie Creamery Celebrates Scoop it Forward
The "Scoop it Forward" event at USU's famous Aggie Creamery does feature free ice cream, but the goal is to educate the public on nutrition and dairy research, including developing dairy technology with USU's Western Dairy Center.
OPDD and the Puerto Rico Outdoor Association Discuss Value of the Outdoor Industry
OPDD Director, Andrew Deceuster was invited by the Puerto Rico Outdoor Association to speak on the importance of the outdoor industry to the economy in Puerto Rico.
Preparing the Outdoor Workforce of Tomorrow
Staff from OPDD program spoke alongside representatives from other Utah outdoor programs as part of a panel hosted by the newly formed Utah Outdoor Association (UOA).
Alumni Spotlight: Nate Ball
Nate Ball, after being a part of the first graduating class is living the dream, interning for Vermont-based fly-fishing company, Orvis.
OPDD First Graduating Class Presents Senior Projects to Industry
OPDD students display their Senior Exhibits for Advisory Board, industry, and the general public prior to their upcoming graduation as the inaugural class from OPDD.
Twin Falls man tapped to head Western Dairy Center
Utah State University is pleased to announce Eric D. Bastian as the new director of the Western Dairy Center.
USU Students Sponsor Textile Upcycling Station at Outdoor Retailer
The outdoor industry gathers three times a year in Denver, CO for Outdoor Retailer, one of the largest outdoor product tradeshows. This year, OPDD students were invited to sew chalk bags as giveaways to show the power of turning scraps into new products....
Student Spotlight: Shelby McCashland
Utah companies continue to benefit from the talented students currently enrolled in the Outdoor Product Design and Development (OPDD) program. Shelby McCashland, incoming OPDD senior, has been interning for Logan-based ICON Health & Fitness.
2019 USU Equine Production Sale
The university's Equine Science Program sale includes a preview that is open to the public, and an online auction that manages bidding for four days.
Cache Air Fest '19 Will Celebrate 80 Years of Aviation at USU
To celebrate the 80th anniversary of the aviation technology program at Utah State University, the newly formed Cache County Aviation Association is hosting Cache Air Fest ’19, June 28-29.
USU Scientists Among Funding Recipients to Study Wise Use of Fertilizers
The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) recently announced that the Foundation for Agronomic Research has awarded nearly $2.7 million in grants to universities, including Utah State University, to conduct field research and demonstration projects.
Leading Atmospheric and Oceanographic Scientist to Give Seminar at USU
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Senior Scientist Michael McPhaden will give a seminar, “Understanding and Predicting El Niño: Why was the 2015-16 El Niño so Strong?” on Monday, June 10.
USU Aviation Coming to Price Campus
The aviation program at Utah State University has extended to the Price campus of USU Eastern, allowing for more students at the new location. Classes begin fall of 2019.
Student Spotlight: River McKay
OPDD Student River McKay received an offer from Backcountry, an outdoor gear company, to stay on full-time while she completes her senior year at Utah State University.
The Trade Deals Moving Forward and the One That Just Won't Budge
The USDA has announced a $16 billion package that includes payments to farmers and programs intended to open markets in other countries.
Dairy Industry Celebrated at Richmond Black and White Days
For the past 104 years, Black and White Days has been putting Richmond, Utah on the map. The event lasts for nearly a week and focuses on celebrating the dairy industry.
Hauling Your Food and Building Your Roads: USU Eastern Training Helps Fill Jobs that Keep the Country Running
Companies often train their own drivers, but students in the Heavy Equipment and Trucking program at Utah State University Eastern are qualified operators right out of the starting gate and are able to rapidly advance their careers.
Alumni Spotlight: Natalie Cullum
The future is bright for students in the first graduating class of the Outdoor Product Design & Development program, especially for recent graduate and newest employee of Vermont-based Orvis, Natalie Cullum.
OPDD Students Test Class Projects at Black Diamond
Students in Outdoor Product Design and Development (OPDD) not only learn how to translate concepts and ideas, they also learn how to produce tangible prototypes and finished products.
Why Veterinarians are Entering the Vaccine Debate
A link between vaccines and autism in humans has been repeatedly disproved, but a trend against vaccination that originated in the United Kingdom and is now trickling into the United States, has some pet owners refusing to vaccinate their pets.
National Collegiate Horse Show at USU
USU’s Western Equestrian Team has been a top competitor in the region for more than a decade. In recent years, the USU equine science program has developed immensely, making hosting a possibility.
World's Smallest Shoe Factory Visits USU
Portland-based footwear and outdoor brand, KEEN, visited Utah State University’s campus with their revolutionary, shoe weaving robot, the UNEEKBOT.
Lab Students Prepare for Vet School
Three of the senior honors students in Mason's lab have recently been accepted to veterinary school for the upcoming fall semester, and a fourth honors student plans to apply to vet school this summer while working at a veterinary clinic.
Outdoor Historian Sheds Light on the History of the Outdoor Industry
Professor Rachel Gross, a historian of the outdoor industry, gave a public lecture on the heritage of outdoor product companies as well as spent time with the Outdoor Product Design & Development program.
USU Hosts National Semi Final Horse Show
USU hosted one of three Intercollegiate Horse Show Association Western National Semi Final shows this spring, which required the efforts of many members of the USU community, including over 30 volunteers, three student clubs and eight faculty members.
USU Academic Quadrathlon Team Finishes Second at Regional Competition
A team of students from Utah State University’s College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences placed second at the Western Region Academic Quadrathlon held at the University of Idaho in Moscow, Idaho.
USU Student Group Wins Third Place in National Stormwater Challenge
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that a group of students from USU have won 3rd place in their annual Campus RainWorks Challenge.
Amer Sports Hosts OPDD Students in Ogden Offices
OPDD students had the opportunity to visit local industry in Ogden and learn from industry professionals while touring the Amer Sports and ENVE Composites facilities.
Climate History in Tree Rings Builds Understanding of Climate Future
Steve Voelker, assistant professor in USU’s Department of Plants, Soils and Climate, is the lead author of a paper published in Scientific Reports (a Nature Research publication) in March.
Ag Professor Retires After More Than 40 Years of Hands-on Teaching
Lyle “Doc” McNeal was honored at the Riverwoods Conference Center on Monday night, celebrating his more than 40 years at Utah State University. McNeal will be retiring in July from teaching agricultural sciences.
LAEP Welcomes New Faculty Members
Daniella Hirschfeld and Todd Johnson, FASLA, have accepted faculty positions within Utah State University’s Department of Landscape Architecture and Environmental Planning.
Hemp Research Underway at Utah State University
Scientists at Utah State University are studying cultivation practices to optimize the yield and quality of hemp for botanical medicines.
OPDD Teams Up with Real Salt Lake
OPDD student, Makell Garrett, worked with players from the Real Monarchs to better understand cleat design in order to build a better performing product for athletes.
USU and SkyWest announce New Career Pathway Program
The Utah State University aviation program is partnering with SkyWest Airlines to open new pathways into the aviation industry. Students will have access to mentorships and a $15,000 tuition reimbursement after the initial operating training.
Shoe 101
Dave Dolph of Oboz Footwear returned to USU’s Logan campus to share his experience and knowledge about footwear with the OPDD program, this time hosting a smaller workshop called “Shoe 101.”
International Sketching Artist Visiting USU April 11-12
The Landscape Architecture and Environmental Planning (LAEP) Department is hosting international sketching artist, Jim Richards, for a public forum, all-day sketching workshop and a sketch walk the second week of April.
Mock Disaster Teaches USU Veterinary Students to Protect Animals and the Public
At Utah State University, veterinary medicine students are taught to diagnose and contain animal diseases and put skills into practice each year with a mock disaster training.
Student Presents Findings on Utah’s Capitol Hill for Reducing Risks of Colorectal Cancer
Utah State University student researcher Michaela Brubaker was among the 26 USU students selected to present their research in Salt Lake City for Research on Capitol Hill.
Animal Science Student Researcher Presents Work on Ovarian Cells and Longevity
Each year during the Utah Legislature’s general session, students from Utah State University and the University of Utah present their work and demonstrate the value of undergraduate research to legislators and visitors to the capitol.
USU Vet Students Teaching Animal Health and Learning Traditions
Utah State University’s School of Veterinary Medicine students traveled to the Navajo Reservation in southern Utah during spring break for a horse castration clinic.
CAAS Doctoral Student Excels at International Embryo Transfer Society Comp.
Laura Moley, a Utah State University doctoral candidate from Kansas City, MO., studying animal molecular genetics, took third place for her research and presentation at the International Embryo Transfer Society’s annual conference in New Orleans.
The Impact(s) of Legacy
Over the past 45 years, USU’s Landscape Architecture and Environmental Planning (LAEP) department and Extension specialists have engaged Utah’s rural communities through a variety of design-based activities.
A plant named 'kochia' could help NM ranchers survive drought, changing climate
As weather patterns change causing the need for re-vegetation and livestock producers are looking for ways to provide nutritional forage for their animals, NMSU researchers are searching for forage plants that will adapt to the changing weather patterns....
Sean Michael named Fellow of CELA
Professor Sean Michael, head of Utah State University's Department of Landscape Architecture and Environmental Planning (LAEP) is among the five professionals inducted as 2019 Fellows of the Council of Educators in Landscape Architecture (CELA).
Caroline Lavoie Teaching Award
Caroline Lavoie, associate professor of Landscape Architecture and Environmental Planning, is the recipient of the 2019 Council of Educators in Landscape Architecture Faculty Award of Excellence in Design Studio Teaching at the Senior Level.
Dairy Science Club Represents USU
Members of the Dairy Science Club spend the school year preparing for the Dairy Challenge which gives students across North America an opportunity to apply the things they learn in the classroom to a real dairy farm.
Building Landscape Architects in Bengaluru
Moving to Bengaluru, India, for an internship, a city with more people on one street than in the entire town of Inkom, Idaho, was a big step for Ashely Casperson, a Utah State University senior.
Putting Innovation Back in the Hands of Designers
Faculty from OPDD spoke at Snow Show 2019 about the importance of providing designers the tools they need to truly create more innovative and impactful products.
Advocating for the Outdoor Industry
OPDD went to Capitol Hill in Salt Lake City during the Outdoor Recreation Day on the Hill hosted by the Office of Outdoor Recreation to advocate on behalf of the outdoor industry in the state of Utah.
Semesterly “Sheep Day” provides hands-on experience for students
For 27 years, hundreds of students who have been taught by Professor Lyle “Doc” McNeal have traveled to an outdoor classroom in southwest Wyoming.
Students and Faculty Work Together for Design Charrette
Students, professors, and friends of the Department of Landscape Architecture and Environmental Planning recently came together to create a comprehensive plan for the City of Layton during the annual Charrette.
NEW Agriculture and Natural Resources Law Course Begins Next Semester
The College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences (CAAS) is offering a new agriculture and natural resources pre law minor beginning with a class spring semester 2019.
"Doc" McNeal Finishing Strong
Many ADVS alumni and students alike will recall fond memories of Dr. Lyle McNeal, who will be retiring with the completion of spring semester after 40 years of teaching at Utah State University.
From Country Boy to Scientist, an Unlikely But Fantastic Journey
Animal science Professor Zhongde Wang tells of his journey to becoming the first person from the isolated mountain village of his childhood to go to college.
Swimwear Designed Locally
Nani Swimwear, a locally owned swimwear company, designs innovative product from Cache Valley. Nani proves that students, no matter where they live, if they have the right skills, can design products that matter.
Developing Emphathy, Embracing Ambiguity, and Conquering Failure
A truly unique component of the Outdoor Product Design & Development program is its strong connection to industry. Routinely, industry guests can be found speaking in a dedicated Industry Seminar class.
A Diminished Monument
Paul Jakus and Sherzod Akhundjanov research economic impacts of energy sector, ranching and tourism industry salaries, and market forces that influence them.
Degree Posthumously Presented to Family of Officer Andy Barnes
Andrew Barnes, a 9-year veteran of the Utah State University Campus Police Department, and now graduate of the university’s College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences, was diagnosed with lung cancer, and passed away peacefully in 2018.
Scott Jones Named Fellow of the Soil Science Society of America
USU soil science Professor Scott Jones was named a fellow of the Soil Science Society of America during the organization’s annual conference in early January.
Personalizing Medicine. With Goats.
The sheep and goats at Utah State University’s Animal Science Farm don't look extraordinary, and the barns and pastures where they live don't look like most people's idea of a laboratory.
Study Identifies How Hantaviruses Infect Lung Cells
Hantaviruses cause severe and sometimes fatal respiratory infections, but how they infect lung cells has been a mystery. Deleting this receptor made lab animals highly resistant to infection.
English Equestrian Team Volunteers at 4-H Judging Clinic
The Utah State University English Equestrian Team took the opportunity to get involved in the community by volunteering at the Utah 4-H State Horse Judging Clinics in early November.
From a New Zealand Hostel to USU's Creamery and a Food Science Win
The IMPA’s annual competition requires developing a product that contains at least 51 percent dairy. The USU team he led worked with a substance called whey phospholipid protein concentrate.
Utah State's Caine Dairy is Home to to the Number One College Dairy Herd
For the second time, the Caine Dairy Teaching and Research Center was ranked the number one college dairy herd in the nation by Holstein World magazine.
Competing with Cheat Grass and Wild Fires--How One Plant Could Level the Playing Field
Researchers in Utah are working to introduce more fire-resistant plants into western landscapes to reduce the damage.
Hidden Climate Records Within Tree Rings
Researchers from Utah State University and two other institutions recently published a study that uses tree rings to link climate variability to long-term patterns in temperature.
USU Food Science Students Create Recipe for Success
Earning a top spot in a national food science competition takes more than proving yourself as a chef, according to Vidita Deshpande, a PhD candidate studying food science at Utah State University.
Meet Launa Julander, New CAAS Advisor
Launa Julander is the new academic advisor in the College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences for students in Nutrition, Dietetics and Food Sciences and interdisciplinary studies.
Animals Don't Make Great Gifts
Giving a child their own chick, duckling, or bunny as an Easter gift might seem like a fun idea, but caring for these animals requires more work than people anticipate.
USU Vet Student Reaches Out to Help Community Hit By Wildfires
The wildfires that occurred in Northern California in October hit home for Sarah Beard. Beard’s hometown was surrounded by two deadly fires.
USU School of Veterinary Medicine Hosts Equine Dentistry Workshop
The Utah State University School of Veterinary Medicine, in conjunction with the Cache Veterinary Practitioners Association and the Utah Veterinary Medical Association, is hosting the Applicable Equine Dentistry.
USU Nutrition Students Visit Greece, Learn Healthy Lifestyles Practices
The Mediterranean diet is one of the healthiest in the world, and a group of Utah State University dietetics students recently visited the Greek island of Crete to learn the more about this healthy way of living.
Fully Articulated Horse Skeleton is New Teaching Tool
A fully articulated horse skeleton is on display in the Veterinary Science and Biology Building at USU, the product of more than a year of work by Briedi Gillespie and a number of students.
Pet Safety for Firework Season
With fireworks going off in Utah throughout the month of July, pets are bound to get stressed and anxious. Karl Hoopes and Allison Willoughby shared tips to help owners keep their pets safe and make the summer more enjoyable for everyone.
Pets and Travel: What to Know Before You Go
Faculty in Utah State University’s School of Veterinary Medicine, have some advice for pet owners when it comes to traveling with their animals during the summer.
USU Students Reach Out to Retirement Community
12 USU dietetic students created and implemented a health and wellness program at a Logan retirement center for their capstone projects.
Finally, A Game Children Can Play With Their Food
If a new game developed at Utah State University achieves its creators’ goals, parents in some Cache Valley communities may find their children requesting more fruits and vegetables at meal and snack times.
USU CAAS Dean's Seminar to Cover Economics and Nutrition
George Davis, professor at Virginia Tech, will speak about how people make choices regarding food for the College of Agriculture and Applied Science’s Dean Seminar.
Horses Hone Questar Employees’ Communication Skills
The Utah State University equine science program recently hosted an Equine Experience event for Questar Gas employees to illustrate the effects of non-verbal communication, using contact with horses as teaching tools.
Utah State's Caine Dairy Farm Awarded for Being Number One College Dairy Herd in the Nation
Dairy and Aggie Ice Cream are one and the same at Utah State University. Recently the Caine Dairy was ranked as the number one college dairy herd in the nation based on herd breed age average score by Holstein World magazine.
New Fueling Station Gives Nutrition Students Hands-on Experience
The Aggie Fueling Station had a goal of working together to provide athletes with the food they need to complement the physical demands of training and nutrition and dietetic students.
USU Agribusiness Degrees Will Prepare Students in Mauritius and Beyond
Utah State University’s agribusiness and international agribusiness programs in the Department of Applied Economics the first to offer four-year degrees from an American university in that country.
Agricultural Education Student Chosen as National FFA Officer
Sarah Draper of Brigham City, Utah, an agricultural education major at Utah State University, recently was chosen to serve as western region vice president in the National FFA organization.
USU Plant, Soil and Climate Student Presents Flowers-as-Crop Research on Capitol Hill
Utah State University plant science major, Maegen Lewis, is presenting her research on annual cut flowers in the intermountain west for Research on Capitol Hill in Salt Lake City.
Student Researcher Presents Findings on Organism’s Ability to Preserve its Own Species
Utah State University plant science major Alex Braeger presented his research on plant and animal reproduction as one of the 26 USU students selected to participate in Research on Capitol Hill at the Utah State Capitol in Salt Lake City.
Heloisa Rutigliano Profile Q & A
In 2010, Rutigliano began postdoctoral research at Utah State University. She is an assistant professor USU’s Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences and teaches in the School of Veterinary Medicine.
Media Mentions
Have you seen the College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences in the news recently? Here's a quick summary of where you may have seen us.
Learning to Live Your Best Life: Celebrating a Century of Family and Consumer Sciences Education
2019 marked the year that Utah State University has been preparing future secondary school teachers to teach important skills for daily living for 100 years. While the field has been around for more than a century, the ways in which skills are taught and ...
LAEP Faculty Honored
Department of Landscape Architecture and Environmental Planning (LAEP) faculty members Sean Michael and Caroline Lavoie were honored this spring by the international Council of Educators in Landscape Architecture (CELA).
Hauling Your Food & Building Your Roads
According to the American Trucking Associations, companies currently need about 60,000 drivers, a number that could top 100,000 in just a few years.
Exploring Space: It Takes More Than Rocket Science
When Ray Wheeler arrived in Utah to do graduate work in plant ecology, he had a fascination with plants, a love of science and discovery, and no aspirations to be part of the U.S. space program. But that changed when he was introduced the NASA space resea...
Ride Utah: USU Veterans Taking the Reins
Utah State University Extension’s Ride Utah! program for military veterans is proving to be successful just 4 years since its creation. Veterans and their families learn how to work with horses and often benefit from the therapeutic effects of being in th...
What is Your Why
USU’s Advisor of the Year, Kaylee Roholt, tells of helping students navigate college and how she discovered her own why.
Hemp Research Underway at Utah State University
Scientists at Utah State University are studying various growing practices to optimize the yield and quality of hemp for botanical medicines.
Making Rain Work at the Heart of Campus
The U.S. Environmental Protection (EPA) announced that a group of students from Utah State University have won third place in the annual Campus RainWorks Challenge. The group competed against 39 other teams from across the nation.
Semi-Final Horse Show A Success
USU’s Western Equestrian Team has been a top competitor in the region for more than a decade. Until now, there hasn’t been a team in the region with the facilities or access to enough show-quality horses to host this caliber of event.
Farming Mars
Bruce Bugbee recalls that on July 20, 1969, his mother called him and his friends to come inside because Apollo II astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin were about to become the first humans to walk on the moon. It was possibly the only thing that cou...
2018-2019 CAAS Award Recipients
A highlight of College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences Week is the annual Awards and Honors Banquet. The evening brings together students with scholarship donors and highlights a number of student, faculty and alumni achievements. Learn more.
Agreement Brings Together East and West
A recent visit to Utah State University by top administrators from National Chung Hsing University (NCHU) was an important step in solidifying efforts to create learning and research opportunities for faculty and students at both universities. Learn More....
Aggie Chocolate Factory: From Bean to Bar
The Aggie Chocolate Factory opened its doors to the public on November 16, 2018, welcoming a long line of chocolate lovers and foodies who came to taste the factory’s first collection of treats. The factory processes chocolate from bean to bar (and bean t...
Discovering New Possibilities in the Saddle
You may know a child or adult who benefits from therapy for shyness, anxiety, autism, learning delays, or physical challenges. CAAS equine therapy programs are moving some therapy sessions from the doctor’s office to the horse barn.
Travis Beats Godzilla
Back off Batman and Superman. Experience the greatest battle is about to knock off your socks. Godzilla V Travis. In this throw down, Travis will use his mystical pepperoni powers to tackle his greatest foe.
Aviation and Technical Education News
News and highlights for the Aviation and Technical Education department in the College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences at Utah State University.