The Department of Agronomy provides statewide leadership in teaching, research, and extension in crop, soil, and range sciences. Weed science, crop breeding, climatology, and protecting soil and water resources are also important components of the departmental mission. Advances in these sciences have major impact on transforming the bounty of the natural resources of Kansas into the present standard of living enjoyed by its people.
Agriculture is of preeminent importance to the economy of Kansas.
Responsibilities of the department relate directly to the production inputs of 65,000 farms on 47.5 million acres of cropland and rangeland in the state. Many research and extension activities are conducted cooperatively with faculty at outlying research centers, in other Departments in the College of Agriculture, other Colleges at KSU, and with colleagues and organizations beyond Kansas. Agronomists use science and natural resources like soil, water, and plants to sustain the world's food supply and a quality environment. Their challenge is to understand, manage, and protect earth's vital resources while addressing humanity's basic concerns about quality of life. Agronomy is basic to food production and offers an exciting career to those interested in food, feed, and fiber production.