Research Overview

AFES researchers work to provide Alaskans with scientific information about agriculture and natural resources that contribute to our everyday lives through food and landscapes. From breeding programs and varietal trails to forestry products and plant pests, AFES research focuses on improving Alaska鈥檚 plant production, economic diversity and access to our natural resources.

Research

Alaska Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit logo
Alaska Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit

The Alaska CESU is a partnership between academic and federal agencies that focuses on Arctic and Subarctic anthropology, landscapes, ecology, archeology, and physical and biological sciences.

Lush forest with tall trees and green grass covering the ground
Forestry

Forestry research at AFES is focused on boreal forest ecosystems and forest products. Our researchers work to understand how our forests respond to climate and environmental change, providing knowledge and data products to land users and managers.

A greenhouse filled with plants and white flowers
Greenhouse Horticulture

Due to Alaska鈥檚 short growing season, many producers use greenhouses. AFES researchers are working to improve greenhouse food and ornamental plant production methods for Alaskan commercial growers.

Northwest Climate Hub

The Northwest Climate Hub encompasses Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. It aims to help farmers, ranchers, forest landowners, and Native American tribes adapt to climate change by providing science-based knowledge and practical information.

A person holding a piece of wheat in their hand
Small Grains

Grain crop production research combines genomics with modern plant breeding techniques to find high-yielding and early-maturing barely and wheat varieties for the Alaskan climate and Alaskan farmers.

Field of corn with labeled signs
Variety Trials

The variety trials aim to determine which vegetable, fruit and nut varieties grow best in various regions of Alaska. Researchers also evaluate varieties bred to have qualities that make them potentially good candidates for Alaska鈥檚 growing conditions, providing this information to farmers and gardeners state-wide.

Partner Projects

Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the Environment (GLOBE)

GLOBE promotes and supports students, teachers, and scientists to collaborate on inquiry-based investigations of the environment and the dynamics of the Earth system.

Bonanza Creek Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER)

The Bonanza Creek LTER conducts ecological research at the Bonanza Creek site and Caribou-Poker Creeks Research Watershed sites.

Arctic and Earth SIGNs

Arctic and Earth SIGNs connects youth and adults to climate change and Earth science learning through inquiry-based GLOBE investigations and community stewardship projects. Come collaborate with NASA and Arctic scientists to make a difference right where you live!