University of Florida

 

 

 

 

 

 

The University of Florida (UF), founded in 1853 as a land grant university, is the nation's fourth largest institution of higher education, enrolling about 50,000 students annually. UF, ranked 13th in U.S. News and World Report's "2006 Top Public Universities", is home to 16 colleges and more than 150 research institutions.

In addition to the University's main campus in Gainesville, degree programs and courses are offered at its 13 Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) Research and Education Centers situated throughout the state. IFAS specializes in agricultural research, extension and education.

The University's Indian River Research and Education Center (IRREC), located in Fort Pierce, Florida, began in 1947 with only one scientist and a small laboratory. Today, through its more than 20 scientists and researchers, IRREC is known domestically and internationally for its cutting-edge research and high-quality educational programs.

At IRREC, students who hold an Associate in Arts degree may pursue a Bachelor's degree in either Agribusiness Management or Environmental Management. Master's degree programs include Agricultural Education and Communication, Entomology, Environmental Horticulture, and Environmental Science. Additionally, the Center offers a non-degree professional certificate in Agribusiness Management, Agricultural Education and Communication, and Entomology.

IRREC provides regional leadership to agriculturalists through its research and extension programs, including biological, chemical and cultural pest management; entomology; virology; plant pathology for citrus, ornamental and vegetable crops; and control of invasive plants. Specific research areas include: water and nutrient management for citrus and flatwoods soils; epidemiology and control of citrus leaf and fruit diseases; evaluation of citrus and vegetable cultivars in Florida; utilization of soil amendments; and the micro-irrigation of horticultural crops in humid regions. The Center also takes a leadership role in citrus, vegetable and water management on Florida's east coast as well as in the economic production of agricultural products, the post-harvest handling and packing of agricultural products and the biological control of invasive plants and aquaculture.

For more information about the University of Florida and the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences in Gainesville, visit our website at www.ufl.edu. To learn more about IRREC in Fort Pierce, contact the Coordinator of Academic Support Services at 772-468-3922, extension 126 or visit the website at www.irrec.ifas.ufl.edu.