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Articles by Seth Truscott
WSU Experts to Share High-Tech Solutions for Tree Fruit at FIRA USA
By Seth Truscott Scientists in Washington State University’s College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences (CAHNRS) will present innovations shaping the future of tree fruit agriculture at FIRA USA 2026. CAHNRS is a sponsor and strategic partner of the U.S. conference of the International Forum on Robotics and Automation, gathering Oct. 20-22 in Yakima, Washington.
Border-hopping virus identified in Chilean pepper and tomato crops
Two views of virus-blemished peppers found in northern Chile. Those on the left show the telltale spots of pepper necrotic spot virus. WSU scientists worked with Chilean colleagues to confirm that the virus had entered the country. Credit: WSU photo collage An international team of scientists recently collaborated to identify a mysterious viral disease damaging pepper and tomato crops in Chile.
WSU experts to share high-tech solutions for tree fruit at FIRA USA
Scientists in Washington State University’s College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences (CAHNRS) will present innovations shaping the future of tree fruit agriculture at FIRA USA 2026. CAHNRS is a sponsor and strategic partner of the U.S. conference of the International Forum on Robotics and Automation, gathering Oct. 20-22 in Yakima, Washington.
WSU-Chile collaboration reveals border-hopping virus
An international team of scientists recently collaborated to identify a mysterious viral disease damaging pepper and tomato crops in Chile. Publishing their results in Plant Disease, virologists at Washington State University and the Pontifical Catholic University (PCU) of Chile confirmed the presence of pepper necrotic spot virus, an insect-spread pathogen discovered in Peru but previously unknown in its southern neighbor. Hanu Pappu, Chuey Endowed Chair and Samuel H.
Game-week Harvest Markets to share tastes of WSU innovation
PULLMAN, Wash. — Campus visitors can meet Washington State University athletes and Butch T. Cougar while sampling award-winning Cosmic Crisp® apples, Ferdinand’s ice cream and other student-made products at two upcoming Harvest Markets. Taking place on back-to-back Fridays this fall, each market will feature students, scientists and nutrition experts passionate about food and agriculture. Admission is free for all.
Regents Professor Jill McCluskey joins National Academies’ new Food, Nutrition, and Ag Committee
Jill McCluskey, Regents Professor and Director of the School of Economic Sciences, is an inaugural member of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine‘s newly established Food, Nutrition, and Agriculture Program Advisory Committee. Beginning her two-year term July 1, McCluskey will help guide national science priorities and policies in human and animal nutrition, safe food, and agricultural production.
Cosmic Crisp® tasting connects new Coug families, minds behind legendary WSU apple
Incoming students and their families got a juicy introduction to Washington State University’s land-grant mission, and in some cases a bite-sized Q&A session on apple breeding, during fall 2026 move-in weekend on Aug. 15 and 16. University pome fruit breeder Kate Evans and Washington Tree Fruit Research Commission Executive Director Ines Hanrahan joined WSU students and staff to treat new Coug families to 1,600 donated Cosmic Crisp® apples Aug. 15 and 16 at Beasley Coliseum.
Harsher weather could encourage sustainable ecolabeling in fishing industry
Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain New research by a Washington State University economist examines how changing environmental conditions may influence the practice and trustworthiness of sustainable ecolabeling in the fishing industry. Ana Espinola-Arredondo, professor in the School of Economic Sciences, worked with colleagues at the Universitat Pompeu Fabra in Barcelona, Spain, to model ecolabel certification in fisheries.
Harsher weather could encourage sustainable ecolabeling in fishing industry
New research by a Washington State University economist examines how changing environmental conditions may influence the practice and trustworthiness of sustainable ecolabeling in the fishing industry. Ana Espinola-Arredondo, professor in the School of Economic Sciences, worked with colleagues at the Universitat Pompeu Fabra in Barcelona, Spain, to model ecolabel certification in fisheries.
Biocultural families: Study centers Indigenous priorities in connections to environment
A view of fall foliage at Masons Mountain in Unama'ki (Cape Breton), Nova Scotia, which is home to five Mi’kmaw communities, pictured in fall 2024. Recently published research by WSU horticulturist Jeffrey Wall drew on interviews with Mi'kmaq knowledge-holders to model and understand the connection between Mi'kmaq and their environment, including key species.
Biocultural families: Study centers Indigenous priorities in connections to environment
PUYALLUP, Wash. — Washington State University horticulturist Jeffrey Wall partnered with members of the Mi’kmaq First Nations people of Canada to create a new, Indigenous-centered model of the connections that link humans with plants, animals, and the environment. Wall interviewed over a dozen traditional knowledge keepers in Unama’ki, the Cape Breton Island homeland of the Eskasoni Mi’kmaq.
Inaugural Dean’s Faculty Fellow awards support research, teaching, and outreach projects
Nine scientists at Washington State University’s College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences are launching high-impact educational experiences, research into complex challenges, and outreach that improves lives through a new fellowship program. The Cashup Davis Dean’s Faculty Fellows program was created this year by Raj Khosla, Cashup Davis Family Endowed Dean of CAHNRS, to encourage bold approaches and cross-college collaborations.
CAHNRS Cougs, Cosmic Crisp® apples bring community together for USA 250th party
Sarah and Steve Vining, a married couple with proud links to Washington State University’s College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences (CAHNRS), invited their lakeside community to a floating celebration that connected the nation’s 250th birthday, Cougar pride, and Washington’s own Cosmic Crisp® apple. The Vinings organized a WSU-themed boat tailgate party July 5 at Loon Lake, an unincorporated community in Stevens County about 30 minutes north of Spokane, Washington.
Students compete to solve clothing rental company Armoire’s real-world challenge
With growing numbers of stylish but thrifty dressers choosing to rent their wardrobes, rather than buy them, apparel rental has become a global market worth over $2 billion. Students at Washington State University put their knowledge of these savvy consumers to the test in a real-world competition judged by Armoire, a Seattle-based clothing rental and sales company.
Lind Field Day to Help Growers Navigate Challenging Season
By Seth Truscott Scientists will walk dryland grain growers through discoveries that could save fuel, fertilizer, and other input costs at Washington State University’s longest-running field day. The 108th annual Lind Field Day, Thursday, June 11, at Lind Dryland Station, gives producers in Washington’s low-rainfall grain country a look at new varieties and current research. A special focus for 2026 is on practices that may help farms stay competitive.
Lind Field Day to help growers navigate challenging season
Scientists will walk dryland grain growers through discoveries that could save fuel, fertilizer, and other input costs at Washington State University’s longest-running field day. The 108th annual Lind Field Day, Thursday, June 11, at Lind Dryland Station, gives producers in Washington’s low-rainfall grain country a look at new varieties and current research. A special focus for 2026 is on practices that may help farms stay competitive.
Fulbright France highlights WSU professor’s global energy impact for America’s 250th
Bin Yang, a scientist pioneering renewable fuels at Washington State University’s Department of Biological Systems Engineering, was highlighted by the Franco-American Fulbright Commission this spring as part of celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the United States. An expert in sustainably produced fuels, Yang recently spent six months engaged in collaborative work in France.
Construction begins for new WSU Plant Growth Facility
Years in the making, the new Plant Growth Facility at Washington State University’s Wenatchee Tree Fruit Research and Extension Center (TFREC) began construction April 1. The WSU Board of Regents greenlit construction in March of a final design fine-tuned by scientists and architects to support current and future tree fruit research needs. Construction of the $18 million, 24,000-square-foot facility is expected to wrap up in a year, with an opening planned for summer 2027.
What's in a name? Study finds two dahlia-damaging viruses are variants of same species
Prabu Gnanasekaran, WSU research associate, purifies viral DNA for sequencing as part of a virus characterization experiment. Credit: WSU photo For decades, two different viruses were believed to be responsible for a common, untreatable disease in dahlias, a colorful, high-value flower grown worldwide. Virologists at Washington State University have now learned that the two viruses, known as dahlia mosaic virus and the dahlia common mosaic virus, are variants of the same viral species.
What’s in a name? Study finds two dahlia-damaging viruses are variants of same species
PULLMAN, Wash. — For decades, two different viruses were believed to be responsible for a common, untreatable disease in dahlias, a colorful, high-value flower grown worldwide. Virologists at Washington State University have now learned that the two viruses, known as dahlia mosaic virus and the dahlia common mosaic virus, are variants of the same viral species.
Construction begins for new WSU Plant Growth Facility
Years in the making, the new Plant Growth Facility at Washington State University’s Wenatchee Tree Fruit Research and Extension Center (TFREC) began construction April 1. The WSU Board of Regents greenlit construction in March of a final design fine-tuned by scientists and architects to support current and future tree fruit research needs. Construction of the $18 million, 24,000-square-foot facility is expected to wrap up in a year, with an opening planned for summer 2027.
WSU launches bilingual video series to help beekeepers improve colony health
New beekeepers often jump into the job with little more than a protective suit and the willingness to work hard and endure stings. Researchers with Washington State University’s Honey Bee and Pollinators Program have produced a new video series giving novice keepers a strong introduction to best practices and the science of apiculture, in both Spanish and English.
Scientists discover bee species that depends on Texas shrub
PULLMAN, Wash. — Entomologists have discovered a new species of mining bee that has an unusually tight relationship with cenizo, the official state shrub of Texas. Silas Bossert, assistant professor in Washington State University’s Department of Entomology, worked with colleagues in Texas and Kansas to identify and describe the new mining bee, Andrena cenizophila. Published in the Journal of Melittology, their findings offer new insights into the diverse group of native pollinators.
New Study Sheds Light on Protein Landscape Crucial for Plant Life
By Seth Truscott Research led by scientists at Washington State University has revealed insights on how plants form a microscopic landscape of proteins crucial to photosynthesis, the basis of Earth’s food and energy chain. The discovery provides a new view of the molecular engine that converts sunlight into bioenergy and could enable future fine-tuning of crops for higher yields and other useful traits.
Electron microscopy maps protein landscapes that drive photosynthesis
Helmut Kirchhoff, professor in WSU's Institute of Biological Chemistry, holds a tray of plants inside his lab's automated phenotyping chamber. New research by Kirchhoff and a team of U.S. and international colleagues revealed the structure of the molecular landscapes responsible for photosynthesis inside plant leaves. Credit: Seth Truscott, WSU CAHNRS.
New study sheds light on protein landscape crucial for plant life
PULLMAN, Wash. — Research led by scientists at Washington State University has revealed insights on how plants form a microscopic landscape of proteins crucial to photosynthesis, the basis of Earth’s food and energy chain. The discovery provides a new view of the molecular engine that converts sunlight into bioenergy and could enable future fine-tuning of crops for higher yields and other useful traits.
With NSF Award, WSU Crop Scientist Harnesses AI to Identify Higher-Yielding Wheat
By Seth Truscott Using the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to process vast amounts of complex data, scientists at Washington State University aim to speed up the breeding of higher-yielding wheat crops.
With NSF award, WSU crop scientist harnesses AI to identify higher-yielding wheat
Using the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to process vast amounts of complex data, scientists at Washington State University aim to speed up the breeding of higher-yielding wheat crops.
New From Extension: Changing Impacts To Washington Agriculture, Research Insights On Cover Crops
Farms.com Home › News By Seth Truscott The latest online guides from WSU Extension offer research-based insights on cover crop mixes and monocultures, as well as potential climate impacts to Washington agriculture. Through the Extension Publications Store, experts from WSU and partner institutions share a wide range of informational resources aimed at farmers, gardeners, homeowners, and other communities. The storefront includes a list of recent products.
New Indigenous-focused horticulturist brings traditional ecological knowledge to light
As Washington State University’s new Indigenous-focused horticulturist, Jeffrey Wall has begun exploring how traditional practices from the state’s first peoples can help nourish societies and repair the environment. Part of the Department of Horticulture, Wall moved to Washington to begin his work at the WSU Puyallup Research and Extension Center on Jan. 1.
WSU plant pathology graduates lead crop-defending clean plant programs across North America
Viral diseases cause multi-billion-dollar damages to global food crops annually. Scientists at Washington State University are training the next generation of virologists to fight these diseases with a simple but crucial tool: clean plants. Growing crops from virus-tested seeds, tubers, or cuttings is one of the most effective ways to reduce the damage caused by plant viruses.
WSU Researchers Explore the Scents That Drive Christmas Tree Appeal
PULLMAN, Wash. - This fall, volunteer panelists on opposite sides of the country popped open small containers and inhaled the sometimes spicy, often nostalgic odor of six different Christmas tree species. The sensory panels, conducted by scientists at the Washington State University School of Food Science, and simultaneously at the University of Florida, inform research for improved holiday firs that can grow fast, appeal to consumers, and stand up to a month or more of display.
WSU researchers explore the scents that drive Christmas tree appeal
This fall, volunteer panelists on opposite sides of the country popped open small containers and inhaled the sometimes spicy, often nostalgic odor of six different Christmas tree species. The sensory panels, conducted by scientists at the Washington State University School of Food Science, and simultaneously at the University of Florida, inform research for improved holiday firs that can grow fast, appeal to consumers, and stand up to a month or more of display.
Mount Vernon Research and Extension Center braces for flooding
MOUNT VERNON, Wash. — Leadership at Washington State University’s Northwestern Washington Research and Extension Center (NWREC) at Mount Vernon closed the station Thursday for the remainder of the week and made ready for high water amid evacuation and flood warnings. The station is under a level three evacuation warning, which asks all residents within the 100-year floodplain of the Skagit River to leave immediately.
Second Fulbright award sends genome scientist to Egypt for food security collaboration
Washington State University scientist Zhihua Jiang will join Egyptian colleagues this fall in collaborative research for more efficient livestock production, thanks to his second Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program award.
Design-build team selected for WSU’s new Wenatchee growth facility
Development of Washington State University’s new Plant Growth Facility at Wenatchee is moving forward this fall with help from a newly selected design-build team rooted in regional agriculture. Following a competitive process that drew interest from 16 teams, WSU Facilities Services selected builder Absher Construction, a Puyallup-headquartered company with offices in Wenatchee, and Flad Architects, a national firm whose principal architect for the project is Wenatchee-based.
Endowed role expands Regents Professor Min Du’s investigation of beef quality, animal health
Regents Professor Min Du’s research program bridges animal science and biomedicine to serve thousands of livestock producers and families. Du will gain new opportunities to expand his work Oct. 1 when he is officially appointed the Thelma and Max Baxter Endowed Chair in Beef Research and Education at Washington State University.
Apple Cup Harvest Market showcases WSU-made products
PULLMAN, Wash. — The 80-foot Cosmic Crisp® hot air balloon will return to Washington State University’s Pullman campus Friday, Sept. 19, for the first-ever Apple Cup Harvest Market, a free event offering tastes of a wide range of Cougar-made foods and products. The Apple Cup Harvest Market is 4 to 6 p.m. Friday at Mooberry Track and Field.
WSU-bred native grasses to compete with wetland-clogging invaders
Native grasses bred at Washington State University could assist conservationists in pushing back invasive plants choking wetlands in Idaho and Washington. Members of the Idaho Native Plant Society‘s White Pine Chapter partnered with Michael Neff, grass breeder and professor in WSU’s Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, to obtain a seed supply of tufted hairgrass.
Tree fruit commission, WSU reaffirm landmark partnership, endowed chair support
Research and industry leaders from Washington State University and the Washington Tree Fruit Research Commission (WTFRC) reaffirmed their partnership for science serving the Washington tree fruit industry at a special event Thursday, Aug. 7.
WSU tree fruit program, industry welcome new students with apples at move‑in
PULLMAN, WA – Partners from Washington State University and the Washington tree fruit industry will roll out a red-carpet welcome for incoming students on Saturday, Aug. 9, distributing thousands of Washington-grown Cosmic Crisp® apples as part of the annual fall move-in at WSU Pullman. As new students settle into their campus homes, they, along with their families, will receive a fresh Cosmic Crisp® apple, known for its unique crunch and sweet-tart flavor.
WSU tree fruit program, industry welcome new students with apples at move-in
Partners from Washington State University and the Washington tree fruit industry will roll out a red-carpet welcome for incoming students on Saturday, Aug. 9, distributing thousands of Washington-grown Cosmic Crisp® apples as part of the annual fall move-in at WSU Pullman. As new students settle into their campus homes, they, along with their families, will receive a fresh Cosmic Crisp® apple, known for its unique crunch and sweet-tart flavor.
National award for beautiful blooms honors disease-fighting peony researcher
In the last quarter of his 46-year Washington State University career, scientist Gary Chastagner found success protecting crops of creamy, colorful peony flowers from Botrytis, an ugly fungal disease. This summer, flower growers repaid him with an unusual compliment: an award in his name for three outstanding blooms at the American Peony Society‘s National Flower Show. “This is a very special honor,” said Chastagner, emeritus professor of plant pathology.
Updated Pacific Northwest Gardener’s Handbook, tools for acidic soils
July 23, 2025 By Seth Truscott, College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences A tractor plows an empty field (image from Adobe Stock). Each month, experts at Washington State University present free online guides that help inform growers and improve communities. Aimed at Northwest gardeners and farmers, the newest publications from WSU Extension include a comprehensive handbook on Pacific Northwest gardens and a look at a new soil-improving calculator tool.
AgWest gift to enhance capacity at WSU’s new Plant Growth Facility
Scientists at Washington State University’s Wenatchee Tree Fruit Research and Extension Center (TFREC) have received a new $500,000 pledge from AgWest Farm Credit supporting enhanced greenhouse and research capacity through the new Plant Growth Facility. The planned $18.2 million facility will replace aging infrastructure at TFREC, enabling state-of-the-art capabilities for year-round research.
WSU Potato Field Day showcases latest research advances
Experts will share the state of current research on potatoes at the Washington State University Potato Field Day, Thursday, June 26, at Othello, Wash. The field day brings together researchers from WSU and partner institutions who breed and test potato varieties and develop improved ways to grow the crop, fight disease, and increase productivity and health.
Learn about the newest science of spuds at WSU Potato Field Day, June 26
Experts will share the state of current research on potatoes at the Washington State University Potato Field Day, Thursday, June 26, at Othello, Washington. The field day brings together researchers from WSU and partner institutions who breed and test potato varieties and develop improved ways to grow the crop, fight disease, and increase productivity and health.
Forest field day offers vital skills for woodland owners
Family forest owners and managers in eastern Washington can learn how to manage and protect their woodlands alongside Washington State University Extension Forestry experts at an upcoming in-field event. At WSU Extension’s Forest and Range Owners Field Day, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, June 21, at the Leavitt Family property in Cle Elum, Washington, recognized experts in forest management, wildlife habitat, and other land stewardship disciplines offer timely, and unbiased information.
See new climate-smart technology for dairies at May 30 field day
ROYAL CITY, Wash. —Scientists from Washington State University and Cornell University will share an in-person look at their experiments this spring field-testing new technologies that could help dairy producers curb their farms’ greenhouse gas emissions.
See New Climate-Smart Technology for Dairies at May 30 Field Day
By Seth Truscott Field-testing new technologies that could help dairy producers curb their farms’ greenhouse emissions, scientists from Washington State University and Cornell University will share an in-person look at their experiments this spring.
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