Mission:
The Crop Systems and Global Change Lab (CSGCL), applies systems theory to the solution of complex agricultural problems and to the development of computer-aided farm decision support systems. This Lab undertakes research to analyze and design systems, to develop models and expert systems, and to generate and evaluate databases. It carries out studies to improve the growth, yield and quality of horticultural and agronomic crops through increased understanding of mechanisms controlling response and adaptation to CO2, UV-visible-IR radiation, water, temperature, air pollution, soil chemistry, and other environmental conditions. Studies are undertaken at molecular, biochemical, organismic, and community levels in controlled environments, greenhouses and in the field, exploiting natural and induced genetic variability and emphasizing interactions among environmental variables. CSGCL carries out basic and applied research to discover and improve methods for planting and farming many crops.