By Scout Nelson
Modern research facilities play an important role in advancing agriculture. By bringing experts together and providing access to advanced equipment, these facilities help researchers solve problems, improve crops, and develop practical solutions for farmers. A new agricultural laboratory is creating opportunities for greater collaboration, faster research, and new discoveries that support the future of agriculture.
The newly opened Bolley Agricultural Laboratory serves as a central hub for agricultural research. The facility brings researchers from different fields together under one roof, including plant sciences, soil science, horticulture, and other agricultural disciplines. This shared environment encourages teamwork, knowledge exchange, and innovation while supporting both research and education.
One of the greatest benefits of the facility is the ability to connect researchers who were previously located in different buildings. Having scientists and students work in the same location helps improve communication and creates opportunities to learn from one another. This collaborative approach allows researchers to share ideas, equipment, and expertise while working toward common goals.
The laboratory supports many areas of agricultural research, including crop breeding and crop quality studies. Researchers use the facility to examine traits that can improve crop performance, product quality, and overall value for agricultural producers. These studies help create practical solutions that can strengthen farming operations and support agricultural growth.
Graduate students are among those benefiting from the facility. Access to modern laboratories and advanced technology allows them to gain valuable experience while contributing to important research projects. The new environment also helps students interact with experts from different agricultural fields, expanding their knowledge and professional skills.
“The space has enabled us to be a more efficient in how we do things,” Matthews, a plant sciences doctoral candidate said. “Previously, groups were very spread out among different buildings. Now we're all together, so we have to find a way to efficiently use what we have and share with others. And sharing has actually been a positive aspect of this building. We’ve learned from each other.”
A major advantage of the facility is improved access to specialized research equipment. Researchers often rely on equipment that must be shared among different teams. In the past, limited equipment availability could slow down the research process. The new laboratory provides modern systems that allow researchers to complete essential tasks more efficiently.
For example, drying systems used to prepare field samples are now more readily available. This reduces waiting times and helps researchers process samples faster. As a result, valuable information can be collected, analyzed, and used more quickly to support ongoing studies.
“We’re getting the data in process and out the door in a quicker fashion,” Matthews said.
Greater efficiency means researchers can spend more time exploring new ideas and answering important agricultural questions. Faster access to data and equipment allows scientists to focus on developing practical solutions that can benefit farmers and agricultural industries.
“This facility as a whole is going to allow researchers to get into those niche areas they want to get into, and it opens the door for a lot of different research to happen that was not previously happening,” he said. “As a result, not only will we see better research being conducted by hitting more areas, but hopefully the state and the farmers will see it.”
Research at the facility focuses on creating useful outcomes that address real agricultural needs. Scientists work to improve crops, strengthen production systems, and develop innovations that can be applied directly in the field. This farmer-focused approach helps ensure that research results have practical value.
“I think most of the people in this building understand that our ultimate goal is to create an end product that is usable by a farmer and producer in North Dakota,” Matthews said.
The Bolley Agricultural Laboratory is also part of a larger network of modern agricultural facilities. Together with other advanced research centers, it helps create a complete agricultural research ecosystem. These facilities support work in areas such as food science, meat science, genetics, horticulture, plant breeding, plant nutrition, food safety, and product development.
By connecting different areas of expertise, researchers can study agricultural challenges from multiple angles. This broad approach encourages innovation and helps generate solutions that address the complex needs of modern agriculture.
The combined strength of these facilities also benefits current and future students. Access to world-class laboratories creates opportunities for hands-on learning, advanced research, and career development. Students can explore many areas of agriculture and find research paths that match their interests and goals.
“It makes the doors pretty wide open to do what students want to do,” he said. “There's a lot of little areas you can get into because you've got all the ends of that spectrum going on in three world-class facilities.”
The laboratory represents a significant investment in agricultural education and research. By promoting collaboration, improving efficiency, and providing advanced resources, it helps researchers pursue new discoveries and support the future of farming.
As agricultural challenges continue to evolve, modern research facilities remain essential for developing practical solutions. The Bolley Agricultural Laboratory provides a strong foundation for innovation, helping researchers, students, farmers, and industry partners work together to strengthen agriculture and create positive outcomes for years to come.
Photo Credit: istock-pkujiahe
Categories: North Dakota, Crops