AUBURN, Ala. (EETV) – Auburn University’s College of Agriculture and the Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station (AAES) will continue their experimental operations even as most other University functions move remote. AAES will continue to fulfill its role in protecting the food supply by conducting research to solve challenges of food insecurity, human health, and the environment.
Much of the research being conducted is ongoing and requires constant management. According to Paul Patterson, dean of the College of Agriculture and director of the AAES, “Failing to proceed with our experimental work would result in the loss of one year’s worth of experimental data and a failure to perform on contracted research work.”
Although Alabama is currently under a “stay-at-home” order, the research being conducted by AAES is exempt. The order allows for the continuation of critical research that requires multiple years of data collection or involves living organisms that require regular care, as well as any agricultural operations. The research conducted by AAES falls into these categories.
The College of Agriculture and the AAES stress that they are taking extra precautions to keep their employees safe. The College is conducting all classes remotely as well as holding regular administrative meetings over Zoom. At research sites proper social distancing measures are being followed.
Many of the researchers stressed the importance of their work, especially during these uncertain times. Although many Auburn faculty and students will continue working, the proper precautions are being made to protect their health.
