UNH's crop science - breeding superior Squash

Oct 03, 2024
By Farms.com

Discover innovations in Squash and Pumpkin genetics

The University of New Hampshire (UNH) has long been synonymous with pioneering agriculture, hosting North America's oldest cucurbit breeding program. This program, led by Chris Hernandez of the New Hampshire Agricultural Experiment Station, is renowned for its significant contributions to the farming of pumpkins and squash.

Initiated in the 1940s, the program has introduced over 100 varieties of cucurbits, significantly impacting global agriculture with innovations that have generated substantial royalties through international seed sales.

This harvest season at the Kingman Research Farm in Madbury, vibrant scenes unfold as the team gathers robust hybrids like the 'Tetsukabuto' winter squash. This variety combines the best traits of kabocha and butternut, offering both exceptional taste and extended shelf-life.

The team's efforts extend beyond breeding for taste and longevity. Led by Hernandez, they aim to enhance disease resistance and nutritional value, addressing key challenges in agriculture while collecting essential genetic data that underpin the program's enduring legacy.

The harvest backdrop is a picturesque mix of sunflowers and zinnias, marking areas dedicated to different cucurbit trials. The visual and scientific richness of the site is open for exploration in further detail in UNH Today's feature on the program's thriving new chapter under Hernandez's leadership.

This educational summary provides a snapshot into how UNH continues to influence the agricultural landscape through scientific exploration and innovation.

Video: Veteran Farmers: A Legacy of Service in Rural America

Veterans Day is a time to honor the men and women who have selflessly protected our freedoms and values. And for some, the transition from military service to civilian life brings them back to the farm.

At Farm Bureau, we believe it’s important to not only celebrate veterans but also those who continue to make a difference in agriculture and their community. We've partnered with Farm Credit to establish the Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence to shine a light on those who have continued to go above and beyond to serve their communities.

This year, we recognize retired Colonel Joe Ricker as the inaugural Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence winner. Joe served over 30 years in the Army before retiring from the Pentagon and completing tours in both Iraq and Afghanistan. Since leaving the Army, his commitment to excellence in farming and enriching the lives of veterans has blossomed in a myriad of ways in both his local community of Wilkinson, Indiana, and across the country. Joe grows apples and raises bees on his farm in Indiana. Joe founded “Veterans IN Farming,” an organization, now with more than 1,100 members, dedicated to providing veterans in Indiana with the tools and training to succeed in agriculture.

The American Farm Bureau Federation is an independent, non-governmental, voluntary organization, comprised of and directed by farm and ranch families who engage in all types of food, fuel and fiber production.