About the center at Weslaco

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Impactful research for the Rio Grande Valley and beyond

Vegetable production in Texas is threatened by high pressure of endemic or new pests and diseases that severely limit production and quality. The vegetable-breeding program is combining conventional breeding and modern molecular methods to develop high-yield, heat-tolerant, disease- and pest-resistant, high-quality tomato and spinach cultivars for the region.

Mission

Conduct innovative scientific research for solutions to complex challenges that impact our food supply systems, and work synergistically across The Texas A&M University System to expand the availability of safe, affordable, and nutritious foods while improving environmental stewardship.

Vision

Serve as a center of excellence in translational research, innovations, and solutions that enhance Texas and U.S. agricultural productivity, economic and environmental sustainability, and consumer health and well-being.

Serving Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service District 12

The Center at Weslaco serves as the district office for Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service District 12. If you are searching for information or guidance on managing agriculture and natural resources at home or in your industry, please contact your county Extension agent.

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Our place within the Texas A&M University System

One of 13 research and extension centers across Texas

The center at Weslaco is one of 13 Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension centers across the state. Each regional center addresses agriculture, life sciences, and natural resources issues that are relevant to the food and commodities thriving where we operate. The centers also collaborate statewide on a range of teaching, research, and extension initiatives. 

The vast environmental and climatic expanse of Texas can account for nearly every region of Earth, meaning the research conducted within the Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension centers carries broad implications for advancing food and fiber systems across the state, nation, and world. 

Each of the regional centers is administrated by Texas A&M AgriLife Research and houses faculty and staff from a range of organizations within The Texas A&M University System.