The soybean variety, Hodgson, developed by Dr. Jean Lambert had a part of its history at the Waseca station and was named in honor of the former superintendent. Very significant changes have occurred in the research program at the Southern Experiment Station. The goals of research have also changed a great deal. It is easy to see in earlier accounts that increased production was of paramount importance. Today's research programs have a different agenda.
Increased production is a legitimate goal only if it results in greater profitability.
In many cases, the purpose of research is to determine if limited input costs might show greater profitability at lower than maximum production levels. While efficient production practices are still the goal of Southern Experiment Station researchers, they must, at the same time, work towards the development of technologies that will have a positive impact on the environment, soil conservation, energy conservation, water quality and the entire spectrum of factors that will contribute to the sustainability of agriculture.