Alan Parnell is passionate about helping to educate farmers and the public about agricultural research.
The Oklahoma native spent more than 30 years as an ag educator for the Oklahoma State University Extension Service. In February, he accepted a position to lead Iowa State University Extension and Outreach’s Field Extension and Education Laboratory, located southwest of campus.
The FEEL facility is comprised of 29 acres and more than 400 demonstration plots, where research is conducted related to insect, weed, disease management, crop fertility, tillage, climate and more. The property also includes climate-controlled classrooms within walking distance of the demonstration plots.
“I feel at home with the position, because I will be working with research and education,” he said. “The FEEL facility provides information to producers and companies that can better peoples’ livelihoods or their production practices, and I enjoy being involved with the process.”
While in Oklahoma, Parnell served as the livestock superintendent at the Tulsa State Fair, and worked closely with people of all ages, including 4-H youth. One of the places they enjoyed vacationing was Iowa.
“Iowa is a beautiful place and it changes with the seasons,” he said. "If you enjoy agriculture, Iowa is especially beautiful to see.”
Mark Licht, associate professor in agronomy and cropping systems specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach, said FEEL is in good hands under Parnell.
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Photo Credit: iowa-state-university
Categories: Iowa, Crops, Education