SECTION 4 - ACHIEVEMENTS

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1 A. Achievements in Instructions: SECTION 4 - ACHIEVEMENTS Dr. Lee has no budgeted or assigned responsibilities for resident instruction; however, a majority of his time is devoted to continuing education activities. His assignment in public service (Extension) requires a high level of proficiency in teaching to interpret technical research information and present this information for use by county Extension agents, growers, consultants and associated agribusiness clients. Dr. Lee is well respected for the quality of his programs and has conducted, upon the invitation of county Extension agents, 353 county meetings in which he provided effective management strategies in grain production and storage to more than 11,450 producers and agri-business personnel (Section 3, 4A-Public Service, pp 53-62). Dr. Lee regularly receives very high evaluations for his ability as an instructor. Dr. Lee has initiated and participated in 51 in-service training programs for county extension agents and others (Section 3, 4A, pp 51-53). He has initiated and led a multi-disciplinary Extension team in providing timely training for agents, consultants, growers and industry representatives in production, management and storage of grains. Because of his expertise in grain production, he has been invited on 137 occasions to give lectures at Extension and non-extension sponsored programs to over 7,600 county Extension agents, agri-business personnel, grain producers, seedsmen and general public (Section 3, 4A, pp 42-51). Dr. Lee was also invited as a guest lecturer at national and international seminars, and undergraduate and graduate level courses in Crop and Soil Sciences at The University of Georgia Athens campus and Tifton campus and also to high school students. His role in these various teaching opportunities was to instruct audiences on grain production, management and technology, biotechnology, plant and soil interactions and protection of natural resources (Section 3, 4A, pp and 64). B. Achievements in Research and Other Creative Activities Dr. Lee has no budgeted or assigned responsibilities in research, however, budgetary constraints have left the grain research program in Georgia greatly understaffed. Dr. Lee has been the principal or coprincipal investigator in developing research based information of importance to grain producers in Georgia and southeastern U.S. He has developed and maintained an active applied research/on-farm demonstration program covering a wide range of production and management topics to provide information for immediate use by grain producers. Dr. Lee also cooperates extensively with other extension and research colleagues from several academic departments at UGA and other universities to facilitate the development and dissemination of grain production information. Examples of Dr. Lee s collaboration are presented as follows. Dr. Lee has worked very closely with an Extension entomologist, Dr. Steve Brown to develop maize weevil management tools in corn. The maize weevil, a major pest of stored corn causes severe losses of grain and reduces grain quality of stored corn. Entomologists estimate that the cost of protecting corn from maize weevils exceeds $3,000,000 each year. In previous years, much of the available data on pre and post-harvest quality of stored grains originated in the Midwest where conditions are vastly different. Following the closure of the USDA Stored Products Insect Research and Development Lab in Savannah, Georgia in 1996, Dr. Lee and Dr. Brown initiated several research and extension projects and are now the only public program in the southeast conducting work on maize weevil infestations in corn. 1

2 Few insecticides are available to control stored grain pest and results have been generally poor to fair. In most cases, grain producers and handlers resort to an extremely dangerous, and highly regulated fumigant to control insects. Unfortunately, fumigants do not prevent reinfestations and thus must be used repeatedly. Due to dangers involved in the use fumigants in grain bins, Dr. Lee co-authored a SARE-ACE proposal that was subsequently funded for $38,150 to improve the knowledge base of county Extension agents and farm leaders regarding safe management techniques for maintaining post-harvest quality of grains stored in southern states. This funding provided the resources for Dr. Brown and Dr. Lee to perfect a closed-loop fumigation system for on-farm storage to reduce exposure to the fumigants and increase the effectiveness of individual applications. To facilitate the dissemination of this technique and enhance the overall effectiveness of the research, they developed a training video for growers, agents, and industry personnel on proper management of stored grain insects. This was the first ever training to county Extension agents on managing post-harvest corn and stored grain in south Georgia. Their studies over the last three years have demonstrated that two alternative products (a diatomaceous earth product and spinosad, a fermentation product of bacteria) can provide a safe and effective control of maize weevil while reducing the need for dangerous fumigants. These findings have been shared with agents, grain handlers, other agricultural professionals in local, national, and international meetings (Section 3, 3A, p 14) and published in newsletters, articles and professional journal (p 3). This research also provided support for the fast track registration of Spin-Tor, the labeled spinosad product. This appears to be a safe alternative to phostoxin, a highly toxic fumigant and will not require repeated applications, thus making it more user-friendly and cost efficient. Evaluation of transgenic corn hybrids for resistance to corn earworm and reduction in aflatoxin. Transgenic corn hybrids expressing the insecticidal protein (endotoxin) from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) was originally developed to control the European corn borer, a major economic pest of the U.S. corn belt. Due to widespread use of Bt cotton in the south and concerns regarding Bt-resistance in other lepidopteran insects, these hybrids were not commercially available to corn growers in the southern U.S. until Farmer acceptance of the technology had been rapid in the Midwest due to severe economic losses by European corn borers, however, the corn borer was generally not a problem for southern growers. Farmers in Georgia and the surrounding states were interested in using the technology but questioned the benefits of the additional cost of $7 to $10 per acre. Working closely with University of Georgia entomologists, Dr. Lee conducted several studies and demonstrations to evaluate benefits of the transgenic resistance for control of the two major lepidopteran insects of corn in the south, the fall armyworm and corn earworm. Because these two insects have been linked with increased levels of aflatoxin in corn, he also was interested in determining the impact that the technology might have in reducing contamination by aflatoxin. These studies provided the information needed for growers to avoid the unnecessary additional cost of the technology at normal recommended planting time. However, the results of the research and extension trials on later-than-normal planted corn showed the average yield loss of 30 bushels per acre due to lepidopteran feeding produced a gross return of almost $70 per acre for transgenic technology when lepidopterans were heavily infesting the corn. These data provided the information needed to reassure corn growers of the value of the technology, when production was later than recommended (when earworm and fall armyworm infestations were more likely). However, the data also showed that, although lepidopteran damage was significantly reduced, it did not reduce aflatoxin. These finding were published in professional journal (Fl. Entomologist) and newsletters and shared with growers at local county extension meetings and short courses. 2

3 Determining nitrogen requirements for grain production following poultry manure applications. Poultry production increased significantly in Georgia over the last decade particularly in the Coastal Plain areas of the state. A by-product of poultry production is the manure which can be used successfully as a source of nutrients for many crops. Each year enough manure is produced to supply over 8,000 tons each of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. This amount of manure poses a serious threat to surface and ground water contamination due to over- or improper fertilization. In 1997, Dr. Lee began a series of on-farm trials to demonstrate the appropriate use of poultry manure. However, due to mineralization variability of nutrients it was difficult to determine the optimum amount for corn and other rotational crops plus any additional nutrient such as nitrogen needed to maximize yield. Since results of manure application vary from year to year due to weather conditions, a diagnostic tool was desired in order to gauge the need for additional N as fertilizer in a specific field and help prevent over and under fertilization. A small hand held device called a SPAD chlorophyll meter appeared to hold much promise as such a tool and was being used by industry and researchers in northern states for help in nitrogen fertilization. Extensive studies in Nebraska, Iowa, and Pennsylvania have shown the value of the chlorophyll meter for predicting N application needs relative to residual soil N and following applications of manures for their particular conditions. But, soil and weather conditions in those states are much different than Georgia's, so best management practices from these states can not be directly transferred to Georgia. It was also important to determine whether or not the SPAD meter worked and if the cost of the tool ($1400) could be justified with fertilizer savings and also environmental protections. From 1998 to 2001, Dr. Lee and a UGA soil scientist, Dr. Gary Gascho, initiated several more studies to determine the usefulness of the chlorophyll meter plus determine supplemental nitrogen needs for corn following manure applications. Results of the three year study and on-farm demonstrations showed that results from previous work on mineralization rates were sufficient for predicting nitrogen needs in corn in coastal plain soils. The results showed growers that when they analyzed the manure and credited the total nitrogen applications for the season with 60% of the available nitrogen, no diagnostic tool was necessary. This helped growers to avoid a needless cost plus provided the necessary information for growers properly fertilize corn and avoid increasing the potential risk to surface and ground water contamination. Further evidence of Dr. Lee s efforts and cooperation with other scientists is in the $1,017, in competitive and noncompetitive grants from government, industry and commodity associations that he and his colleagues have received (Section 3, D. Grants in Gifts Received, pg. 35). This amount of financial support is indicative of the support he has from his associates and industry and association representatives to develop and disseminate non-biased grain production information to the public. C. Achievements in Public Service Dr. Lee has held a 100% public service (Extension) appointment since joining the University of Georgia. He is a full-time member of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences and is assigned to the Crop and Soils Sciences Department as Extension Agronomist- Feed Grains. Dr. Lee s assigned responsibilities are to develop and implement statewide education programs related to producing and managing grains in Georgia. He develops innovative Extension programs that are firmly entrenched in unbiased research information. He works closely with county Extension agents, researchers and agribusiness clientele in encouraging the adoption of cost-effective management techniques in all phases of grain production and storage. Dr. Lee has been extremely effective in utilizing a multi-disciplinary approach to address production problems which affect a farming enterprise that is a source of income for producers in over 75 counties. Grain crops routinely produced in Georgia include corn, grain sorghum, wheat, oats and rye and return about $120 million dollars to Georgia growers. He also is prepared to effectively respond to crises as they may occur in agricultural production and has been recognized by U.S. Representatives for his efforts (Appendix A). Dr. Lee is a strong believer in on-farm demonstrations and applied research trials as a teaching tool for 3

4 county agents, to present proven research results and to gather applied research results in an actual farm setting. He has gained a reputation for conducting trials which provide quality and useful information for growers as evidenced by his success in obtaining funds to support his educational and applied research and demonstration programs, particularly by the corn growers (Section 3, D. Grants in Gifts Received pg. 35). He has conducted on-farm trials in variety comparisons, pesticide evaluations, nitrogen rates, planting date and variety interactions, appropriate use of manure applications, tillage comparisons, grazing effects, weed control, effects of inputs such as varying row widths, fertility rates, transgenic hybrid technology, and growth regulator effects on rye seed production. He publishes the results in bulletins, newsletters, reports and uses the technology to make recommendations that improve the quality and production of corn, wheat, oats, rye and pearl millet. Since his employment as an extension specialist and educator of grain producers and industry representatives, Dr. Lee has continually anticipated major changes and needs in the production and marketing of grains particularly corn and wheat. Some examples of his public service programs are described in the following section. Educational and Applied Research Programs for Grain Growers and the Grain Industry Reducing the Risk of Drought and Aflatoxin in Corn: In Georgia, corn acreage declined from 1.1 million acres in 1985 to 350,000 acres in This decline occurred partly because: 1) of droughts during the 80's and 90's, and 2) aflatoxin contamination, a naturally occurring toxin produced by the fungus, Aspergillus spp. Despite the drought and aflatoxin problems, corn production still contributes $ 88 million or 74% of Georgia s farm income related to grains (corn, sorghum, wheat, oats, rye). The effects of drought and aflatoxin over the years has been millions of dollars in lost value and income to Georgia growers. For instance, the 1998 drought caused a $27 million loss in income on 135,000 abandoned acres and cost farmers more than $37 million in farm expenses. In addition, aflatoxin contamination accounted for over $15 million loss to Georgia s corn producers due to rejections at the feed mill. Short term drought stress is the most yield limiting factor for corn in Georgia while aflatoxin is the greatest limiting factor to Georgia s feed market. Dr. Lee, recognizing the need for both comprehensive short and long term programs, has led a multidisciplinary team of Extension and research scientists in developing educational and applied research programs to address these two very important issues. These programs included improving water utilization efficiency through conservation tillage and timely irrigation, demonstrating management practices that increased production efficiency and yield, and developing a combination of best management practices that reduced aflatoxin contamination. Tillage and irrigation are the practices that can significantly affect short term drought stress and, to a great extent, aflatoxin contamination. In 1992, few growers saw the benefits of using methods that reduced tillage and increased residue accumulation even though new research had shown that conservation tillage methods increased soil organic matter and water infiltration and storage in various crop productions. Dr. Lee initiated several studies and on-farm demonstrations to show growers the benefits of conservation tillage in comparison to conventional tillage. As evidence of the value growers placed on this work, both corn and cotton growers funded his educational and applied research programs. He demonstrated that using a combination of old crop residue and winter cover crops and reduced tillage could positively effect corn yields. He also showed that reduced tillage alone could equal or exceed that of conventional tillage, helping to eliminate the fears that growers had of a poorer yield potential with conservation tillage methods. He worked with other team members to share results from several years of studies in improving water utilization and corn yield through timely applications of irrigations. The results of the studies were shared with growers through his annual short courses, local county educational programs, Extension publications, 4

5 newsletters, and with other professionals at the appropriate professional society meetings (Section 3, 3A, pp 14, 15, 42-46). To remain profitable, growers have begun to adopt management practices such as irrigation and conservation tillage that Dr. Lee has demonstrated to increase yield and improve efficiency. In 1992, 29% of Georgia s 550,000 acres of corn was irrigated and only 18% under conservation tillage, today, approximately 60% of Georgia s 350,000 acres of corn is irrigated and 33% is under conservation tillage. His educational program to reduce the effects of drought and aflatoxin contamination gained international attention which led to repeated invitations by the Peoples Republic of China to lecture at the China Tun Yu Seed Company (one the largest privately owned seed companies in China), Jin Cheng Agricultural Institute, the Shanxi Agricultural University and Chinese Agricultural University, Bejing (Section 3, 6, pg. 64). Much of China s corn production suffers from drought conditions and mycotoxin contamination. While not having any assigned responsibilities in research, Dr. Lee saw the need for more efforts on environmental impacts on drought stress and aflatoxin reduction. He aggressively sought funding for UGA and USDA to develop improved populations and inbreds that are tolerant to drought and infection by Aspergillus spp. He was instrumental in initiating a pilot program in cooperation with USDA and the Statewide Variety Testing Program to test and select inbreds that may be suitable candidates for breeding with the USDA aflatoxin resistant populations currently under development. He also sought funding to add a basic science approach to selecting and developing new plant materials for corn growers in Georgia and the southeastern U.S. This was extremely important in the long term approach to solving the aflatoxin problems. Working in cooperation with USDA, Dr. Lee secured funding for a post-doctorate scientist in 2002 to staff a program within the USDA Crop Protection and Management Research Lab in Tifton to find genes responsible for aflatoxin and drought tolerance. Results from this cooperative effort have been presented at professional society meetings and workshops and are documented in Section 3, 3H, pg. 42. Corn growers demonstrate their confidence in this approach as evidenced by the corn commission funding long term research and basic science projects such as genetic enhancement and development of aflatoxin resistance in corn. In recognition of his technical expertise, in late 2000, Dr. Lee was asked by USDA to serve on the committee that reviews research proposals on behalf of the US. corn industry and make recommendations for funding. This committee, the Multi-Crop Technical Workgroup to Eliminate Aflatoxin reviews request for funding of research in corn, cotton, peanuts, and tree nuts. In 2002, he was asked by USDA to provide a nationwide update on aflatoxin contamination in corn at the th Aflatoxin, Fumonisin, and Fungal Genomics workshop in San Antonio, TX. The effort to eliminate aflatoxin in corn in the southern U.S. has been loosely coordinated. In recent years, Dr. Lee has led efforts to organize a taskforce of several states to coordinate educational and research efforts to address this issue. Trusting the advice, counsel and direction of Dr. Lee, the Georgia Agricultural Commodity Commission for Corn and Georgia Corn Growers Association met with the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) to discuss the potential for developing this group and supporting additional funding of research. NCGA CEO Rick Tolman and President-elect Dee Vaughn agreed to its need and importance. They also agreed to serve as the vehicle to supply support and lobbying activity on behalf of all corn growers in the southern U.S. This led to a meeting with another state grower group, the Texas Corn Board Producers Association Strategic Planning Session, in which the idea was introduced by Dr. Lee. During the 15 th Aflatoxin Elimination, Fumonisin and Fungal Genomics Workshop in Oct. 2002, a formal mycotoxin taskforce was introduced and then assigned by NCGA in December to begin developing and implementing a program to enhance and develop southern genetics and inbreds tolerant to aflatoxin and drought. The organizing meeting was held during the Commodity Classic in Charolette, North Carolina in February, Participating states were Georgia, Texas, and North and South Carolina. In addition, grower representatives from Ohio, Nebraska, and Illinois were interested in expanding this work to include fumonisins, another mycotoxin important in corn. 5

6 Dr. Lee is continuing efforts to find new technology and techniques to reduce the risk to drought stress or aflatoxin in grains. In 2002, Dr. Lee initiated discussions with Joe Dorner, USDA National Peanut Laboratory microbiologist, who patented a bio-competitive non-toxigenic strain of Aspergillus flavus, NPL45. This strain of Aspergillus had been effective in research trials in peanuts in reducing levels of aflatoxin by 98%. Working closely with USDA and the company that owns the marketing license, Dr. Lee began testing the non-toxic strain in corn in early 2003 under the existing Experimental Use Permit issued by the Environmental Protection Agency. This is the first comprehensive multi-location test of a potential bio-control method in corn in the southeastern U.S. If successful, this will represent the first opportunity for corn growers to manage aflatoxin via a safe bio-control product. Intensive Managed Wheat Program. In the mid 1980's, much of Georgia s wheat was grown on marginal soils with generally poor management techniques. The five year state average yield was slightly above 33 bushels per acre. Dr. Lee worked closely with a team of other UGA scientists (a plant breeder, soil scientist, research pathologist, research entomologist) to develop an intensive management program that used a combination of improved varieties and management inputs to improve yield and profits. Utilizing this research information, he demonstrated that yields of 80 to 100 bushels per acre were achievable in Georgia, over twice the five year statewide average. Dr. Lee developed a program based on the differences between average production methods and more intensive management strategies that growers could adopt with little extra cost. Working with county Extension agents and industry representatives, he initiated multiple farm demonstrations using intensive management practices to show farmers the yield potential and profitability of wheat. He wrote extensively in newsletters and articles and conducted numerous televison and radio programs. He shared his program through local county Extension programs, spoke at industry sponsored training programs, and published the first comprehensive bulletin in Georgia on intensive wheat management, which was distributed (over 5000 copies) to wheat growers in Georgia and surrounding states. Adoption of the intensive management techniques by growers in Georgia increased yields 38% (34 bushels per acre in 1986/1990 to 47 bushels per acre in 1999/2002). However, increasing costs and declining prices received by farmers continued to be a negative factor in sustainability. During the same period, prices received by growers declined from $2.91 per bushel to $2.38 per bushel. Dr. Lee initiated an aggressive program to help growers adopt only those practices that were most efficient in production and yield. Onfarm production centers were established in 1999, 2000, and 2001 at strategic sites in Georgia to demonstrate management practices that generate economically profitable yields. These production centers were approximately 10 acres in size and included a collaborative effort by the UGA Grain Team. Both replicated plots and demonstration strips were established and carried to yield. Field days were held at the various locations. Results of these centers were shared at growers meetings, agent trainings, newsletters and through media sources. Over 950 producers attended these educational programs during Though Georgia s wheat acreage is small, Dr. Lee s expertise in wheat production has been recognized nationally. He received a Certificate of Excellence in Extension by the National Association of Wheat Growers for Outstanding Extension Programs and was elected chairman of the Wheat Industry Resource Committee (WIRC) for the National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG) in The WIRC (a committee of University and industry scientists) serves as the association s advisory group and coordinates multi-state educational programs and applied research efforts as requested by the producers. As chairman, he initiated and coordinated the first National Wheat Industry Research Forum. This forum serves as the central research forum for scientific exchange among wheat scientists at the NAWG annual meeting. Each year approximately 50 to 60 scientific presentations in poster or oral forms are made (Appendix B). The sixth National Wheat Research Forum was held in Since its formation, Dr. Lee has served as a chair or co-chair of the forum, oral or poster session. Because of the success of the forum, his leadership has enhanced the reputation of The University of Georgia as a leading source for information and advice on issues of importance to soft red winter wheat production. 6

7 In July, 2003, Dr. Lee was asked by NAWG to serve on an editorial board and also as a contributing author to update and re-issue the national Best Management Practices for Wheat: A Guide to Profitable and Environmentally Sound Production manual. This manual was the industry s first grower led national manual for environmental protection and wheat production in the U.S. and served as a guide for other commodities. The re-issue is a joint project between NAWG, Universities, USDA-CREES, and BASF, a multi-national agricultural company. Grain Production Efficiency Programs: In 1992 and 1994, Dr. Lee began a Making Money with Wheat and High Yield Corn Production Efficiency Program, respectively, to verify the impact of his educational programs in grain production. Producers who adopted UGA recommended management strategies voluntarily entered the program to compare yield, production efficiency, and management practices with other growers throughout Georgia. In wheat production, growers entering the program produced 79% higher yields (81 bushels per acre) than the state average yield (45 bushels per acre) over the same period. Farmer testimony and yield records show that many of these growers have increased their farm averages to 65 to 70 bushels per acre. Growers participating in the program from averaged a total cost of $ per acre or $2.64 per bushel. Prices received by the grower in Georgia over the last eight years averaged $2.93 per bushel. This represents a $23.52 per acre return not including income from any additional federal program. The University of Georgia agricultural economist estimate production cost per acre for the average producer is about $ per acre or $3.86 per bushel. This represents a significant loss for the average growers. This loss in income is verified by the general decline in total wheat acreage in Georgia. The importance of Dr. Lee s educational program intensified over the last four years since prices received by all growers has averaged $2.30, $0.34 less than the eight year average. Dr. Lee has continued to help growers improve efficiency (as mentioned earlier in the preceding section) while maintaining high yields to provide every opportunity for growers to market at a profitable price. Dr. Lee conducts a similar program in corn to demonstrate the impact of efficient management techniques. Georgia corn growers utilizing irrigation in the program averaged 218 bushels per acre, 73 bushels above the statewide average of the same period. The average cost of the individual corn farmer in the program was approximately $390 per acre as compared to the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences Agricultural Economics department estimates of $513 per acre. Growers that participate in Dr. Lee s program averaged $1.79 per bushel cost. The Georgia Agricultural Statistics Service estimates that during the same period, corn growers received $2.62 per bushel, representing an average net return of $ per acre for those growers that entered the program and follow sound management practices. Approximately 500 farms have been entered into the grain production efficiency program during its duration. Though many of Georgia s grain producers continue to improve efficiency and production, they face an uncertain future. Over the last several years, cost of production has risen dramatically while farm receipts have declined. The average prices received for a bushel of wheat the past four years ( ) has been $2.30 as compared to $3.39 the previous four years ( ) and $2.15 and $3.12 in corn, respectively. The results of Dr. Lee s educational programs demonstrate that adoption of these cost-effective management changes will have even greater impact in the future as prices remain low and federal farm support declines for grain producers in Georgia. He continues to take an aggressive approach through his applied research efforts to further improve efficiency while maintaining profitable yields. For example, he had observed that new wheat varieties being introduced to southern growers were greatly improved in their tillering capacity. Tillers are the vegetative growth portion that eventually forms a grain head. One plant produces numerous tillers. This improved ability could allow growers to plant significantly less seed without sacrificing yield. Dr. Lee initiated a study to determine the impact of planting method and seeding rate reductions on the yield of soft red winter wheat. Because intensive management techniques rely on high seeding rates, it was important to verify any results that may lead to a reduction in seeding rates. Dr. Lee initiated discussions 7

8 with colleagues from the University of Kentucky who had made similar observations and began a series of similar studies. Results from both states verified that the new varieties were able to produce the higher yields at lower seeding rates. Dr. Lee was able to reduce seeding rates and thus change seeding recommendations by 38% saving growers approximately $6.00 per acre when using these varieties. The results were shared with agents at training sessions and grower in local county educational programs (Section 3, 4A pp 46, 53) and with other scientists throughout the wheat industry (Section 3, 3A, p 41). Formation of the Agricultural Commodity Commission for Corn. An important source of grant funds for agricultural research and education in Georgia comes from Agricultural Commodity Commissions. In 1994, Dr. Lee met with the Georgia Corn Growers Association and developed a strategy of meetings, publications, and media support to form a commission and corn checkoff program by a state referendum. A checkoff program is designed to allow growers to set aside revenue each year from every bushel of production to promote marketing, increase education and fund research in corn. Dr. Lee recognized that information was needed for growers to understand the potential benefits of a state commission and the details of a referendum. He focused on developing information that would inform growers of the purpose and encourage growers to participate and vote during the referendum. Dr. Lee produced brochures, mail-outs, gave television interviews and created multiple radio public service announcements. In March 1996, the referendum was held and passed successfully, forming the corn commission and generating over $200,000 the first year. In Georgia, state law requires that commodity commissions be reaffirmed every three years. In 1999 and 2002, Dr. Lee again led educational programs to inform growers regarding all issues related to programs that the commission funds. In all corn growers have provided over $1.4 million in revenue for research, education and promotion in Georgia. The commission represents over 2,800 corn growers. Professional Improvement Training for Growers, County Agents, Industry and Allied Agencies and Technology Transfer Annual Update Training Programs: Dr. Lee has initiated, conducted and participated in 51 annual grain update trainings for Extension agents, industry partners, agricultural consultants and allied government agencies (Section 3, 4 A Public Service, pp 51-53). These trainings are multi disciplinary and included presentations from all grain team members. Participants are provided with information and teaching materials to use when working with growers or clientele. These trainings, which include new and innovative production techniques, timely management practices, and new research information, prepare the participants to conduct more effective programs in their county or business. Trainings are held when appropriate in a classroom setting, at research stations, in the field or on-site for specific needs such as grain storage facilities. Improved agent and industry knowledge and confidence in grain production and storage has resulted in greater acceptance of proven, scientific-based management approaches by growers who exhibit confidence in their local extension agent, consultant or agricultural dealer. Following the training sessions, agents and advisors are more comfortable with presenting information in their county or business thus enhancing their credibility with their clientele. Specialized Training: Additional training programs are conducted on specific needs as they arise. For example, in July 1999, Congress changed the rules regarding the Migratory Bird Treaty and Hunting Regulations on Baiting and Baited Areas. In essence, it redefined issues regarding baiting and the hunting over fields that were established and/or manipulated by normal agricultural planting practices in accordance with official recommendations of the state Cooperative Extension Service. A Sportsman Roundtable was held in Tifton 8

9 in Oct by a Congressional Caucus which included U.S. representatives to discuss state and federal regulations, migratory bird and baiting issues, deer management, and ways to improve the dialogue between sportsmen, federal and state regulators and the U.S. Congress. Because of his expertise in grain production, Dr. Lee was asked to serve on the panel to comment on official recommendations by the University of Georgia. As a member of the panel providing the information regarding normal agricultural practices, it became evident to Dr. Lee that Federal and State law enforcement officers were unaware of normal agricultural recommendations and equipment used to establish field production. Most of today s Department of Natural Resource (DNR) law enforcement officers do not have rural or farm backgrounds. The lack of basic agricultural experience and knowledge would make the enforcement of the new rules very difficult and quite subjective. A series of discussions were held with the Department of Natural Resources and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service regarding this lack of experience. Dr. Lee organized and implemented an outstanding specialized training program in June, 2000 to provide the necessary information to train all law enforcement officers on normal agricultural practices (See Appendix C). Training sites were established during the summer to train individuals on the normal agricultural practices of summer and winter grain crops and the equipment involved in establishing these crops. In each case, attendees saw field practices that were recommended and those that would violate baiting laws. After the summer training program, DNR officers cited the fewest violations in years during the early dove season in the fall 2000 and 2001 due to a better understanding of normal agricultural practices. This highly successful and outstanding training program has been attended by over 375 state and federal law enforcement officers and managers. Each year all new law enforcement officers of the Department of Natural Resources are required to attend Dr. Lee s training program so as each officer will have the same knowledge base and experience across the state. Annual Short Courses: Dr. Lee began in 1996 a one-day intensive short course designed to bring research, extension and industry scientists together to share new innovations, research, educational programs and marketing opportunities to corn producers. The topics were subjects that were not covered in local county educational meetings and often involved cutting edge technology first being introduced into Georgia and surrounding states. The short course included a poster session where scientists who do not have an oral presentation could share updates on research relevant to corn production, management, storage, utilization, or marketing. Industry partners also exhibited their products and received grower questions. The intensive short course was so successful that growers requested that the program be continued each year. As evidence of the value the Agricultural Commodity Commission for Corn placed on the short course, the commission fully supports and funds the event each year. Dr. Lee also participates and is sometimes involved in planning other yearly short courses such as the annual seed short course and the Georgia-Florida Small Grain/Soybean Expo. The seed short course is designed to present updates on management, production and storage of wheat, oats, barley, rye, triticale and soybean seed. The course is sponsored by the Georgia Crop Improvement Association, the official seed certifying agency of Georgia. This is one of two main continuing education opportunities where members of the seed certifying agency are able to maintain certification. The Georgia-Florida Small Grain/Soybean Expo is the primary educational opportunity for Georgia and Florida growers interested in small grain and soybean production, management and storage. Scientists from Georgia and surrounding states share updates on research, variety development, and production practices. Dr. Lee is called upon annually to share either an update or some aspect of his educational or applied research and farm demonstration program in winter grains (Section 3, 4A-Invitational Lectures, pp 42-46) County Extension Grain Production Educational Programs: Dr. Lee has been invited by county Extension agents to make presentations at 353 county meetings to more than 11,400 growers and agribusiness personnel. The programs are designed to update grain producers that 9

10 plant approximately 1,095,000 acres of summer and winter grains each year. Dr. Lee is called numerous times each year to develop and conduct educational programs which help growers to compete nationally and internationally in the production of quality food and feed grain. He is also sought after to troubleshoot and diagnose difficult problems that occur in grain production throughout the state each year. This may require his expertise either in a field visit, , phone call or visual observation of plant sample or a distance digital diagnostic imagery system, a system developed by The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service that allows agents to place microscopic or field photo images on the internet for troubleshooting. Technology Transfer: Publications and Mass Media Communications. Dr. Lee has been extremely effective in his use of all methods of technology transfer. His assigned responsibilities are to develop and implement statewide grain production education programs. He has an impressive list of publications, including 22 peer-reviewed Extension bulletins, 5 journal articles, 12 peer-reviewed circulars, 10 handbooks, 50 abstracts and proceedings, 50 miscellaneous reports and production guides, 28 popular press articles, 159 articles in Extension newsletters, and 13 chapters in research performance test bulletins. Dr. Lee is also editor of the newsletters, Grain Highlights (the former, News and Views on Grains and Forages which received a Certificate of Excellence from the American Society of Agronomy for development of Agronomic Education Material). This newsletter is for county Extension agent use and is their primary source of timely information on grains. He also has been very effective in addressing crises as they occur during critical periods of production by keeping agents informed through direct mail topics and/or . A list of his publications can be found in Section 3, 3A-Publications, pp Examples of Dr. Lee s publications range from publishing results of cooperative research in journals and Extension bulletins to developing an innovative and inexpensive bulletin to aid corn growers in choosing hybrids better suited for their farms based on yearly research trials in Georgia. An extremely popular and useful publication for corn growers has been the Multi-Year, Multi-Location Corn Hybrid Evaluation Manual. Corn growers utilize the manual to choose hybrids that demonstrate the most yield stability across multiple environments and thus provide the best yield potential in either a dryland or irrigated system. Seed companies sell over 70 different hybrids in Georgia. Approximately 50 hybrids are tested yearly by the University of Georgia Variety Testing Program at locations throughout the state. The data is published in a yearly Crop Performance manual. Dr. Lee recognized that most growers were using the University s data incorrectly by basing decisions on one location, one year. Research has shown that this is the poorest method of determining hybrid choices. To help growers better understand the information, he developed a simple and inexpensive bulletin that helps growers visualize all years and locations of each hybrid by graphing the data and giving each a score for genetic stability across environments. The bulletin has proven a valuable asset for growers and is re-issued each year with the latest data. Over a thousand booklets are distributed yearly to growers and agricultural businessmen interested in the performance of corn. He has also been called on to present information in regional updates on 124 radio and 42 television broadcasts. Some of these programs not only cover Georgia but are heard or seen in other southeastern states. Dr. Lee is known to be a knowledgeable source for radio and television programming and is sought out by members of the media, including Reuters, Dow Jones News, NBC, national and regional farm broadcasters such as Ag Day, Georgia Farm Bureau Monitor and Radio, Harvest USA, local radio and television news. Not only has he made very effective use of radio and television, he has created a web page as a medium for delivering timely information (Section 3, 4B. pp 28-34). With the growing popularity of the internet, Dr. Lee secured the URL s for easily recognizable names for accessing his grain web site, and Both of these URL s access the University of Georgia Grain Page. Growers can access publications, newsletters, pertinent production information, members of the University of Georgia Grain Team and link to other useful sites of importance to grain production and 10

11 utilization (Appendix D). Production Programs, Trainings and Seminars. Dr. Lee is very well respected for the quality of his county Extension production meetings, trainings and seminars. He regularly receives very high evaluations for his ability as an instructor in this method of technology transfer. His instruction capabilities were discussed previously in Section 4 A. Achievements in Instructions. Service to Professional Societies Other Service Dr. Lee has been very involved in national and state professional societies. He has served on several important national committees. He was the Crop Science Society of America s representative to the National Small Grain Variety Review Board for several years. This board is responsible for reviewing, critiquing and recommending acceptance of newly released small grains into the national seed certification program of the Association of Seed Certifying Agencies. Dr. Lee also served as one of five reviewers in the United States for the prestigious Gerald O. Mott Outstanding Graduate Student Scholarship Award. He also serves on the membership committee for the American Society of Agronomy. He currently serves as an evaluator for the Excellence in Extension individual award programs for the A-4 Division. Dr. Lee has served on the public relations committee for the Georgia Association of County Agricultural Agents (GACAA) since He has also served as Junior and Senior Director for State Staff for the GACAA. In July 2003, Dr. Lee served as one of the voting delegates to National Association of County Agricultural Agents held in Green Bay, Wisconsin and received the 2003 Distinguished Service Award for Excellence in Extension Education Programs. Service as Liaison to Grower Organizations Dr. Lee serves as the liaison to grower organizations and is quite involved in the premier national grower associations for grain crops. The National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG) is the largest organization in the world of wheat growers. The Wheat Industry Resource Committee (WIRC) is a committee of scientist dedicated to providing educational and scientific resources to NAWG. Dr. Lee has served as secretary, vice-chairman, chairman and co-chairman of the committee. He most recently served as co-chairman of the 6 th Annual National Wheat Industry Research Forum held in conjunction with the annual meeting of NAWG. As evidence of the value that the Georgia corn growers place in Dr. Lee, in July 2003, he was asked to serve as the State Executive Coordinator for the Georgia Corn Growers Association and represents the corn growers on issues of concern and importance to them at the National Corn Growers Association in various committee and meetings. Service to University Governance. Dr. Lee has served on numerous committees at the university, college and departmental level. He also serves as one of two primary representatives from the University of Georgia on the state s Seed Arbitration Council. By law, prior to any legal action regarding litigation of seed complaints in Georgia, parties to a seed complaint must first submit to seed arbitration. Because of Dr. Lee s experience in the seed industry and having served as Director of the Georgia Crop Improvement Association, he provides unique experience from the University to the Seed Arbitration Council that serves to reduce costly litigations. 11

12 Dr. Lee has also served on several committees and currently serves on the Plant Cultivar and Germplasm Release committee, and as liaison for the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences to the Georgia Corn Growers Association, Agricultural Commodity Commission for Corn, and the Georgia Feed and Grain Association. He also serves on several commodity committees within the college. A complete listing of his governance activities are shown in Section 3, 5A, Other Services, pp INTERNATIONAL ACTIVITIES AND REPUTATION Dr. Lee s educational program has gained the respect of the international community. He has been invited to make presentations and share his knowledge on grain production, fertilization, pest management, irrigation, transgenic technology and crop utilization to multiple international audiences (Appendix E). These international presentations have served to strengthen his reputation as an authority on grain production and has enhanced the reputation of the University of Georgia as a source of wheat and corn information. He has made repeated trips to the Peoples Republic of China to lecture and share technology to government officials, seed companies, and agricultural universities. At the invitation of the Shanxi Province, Department of Foreign Experts, and Chinese Agricultural University, Dr. Lee traveled to China to discuss ways to introduce conservation tillage and biotechnology and reduce the effects of drought stress and mycotoxin contamination. China is the second largest corn producing country in the world, (behind the U.S.). Much of their production is on drought-prone soils and suffers from heavy mycotoxin contamination. He was also invited to present information to the crop advisors of the largest, private seed company in the Shanxi province, the Tun-Yu Seed Company. Because of the success and information he provided, Dr. Lee was invited back for additional lectures at TunYu and to address the Jen Ching Agricultural Institute and students and faculty at the Shanxi Agricultural University. A list of his lectures are found in Section 3, 5 C, International Invitations, pg