Renovated MSU research greenhouses expand plant science capabilities
Michigan State University completed the first phase of its Plant Science Research Greenhouse Complex renovation, modernizing 60% of the facility.
Michigan State University (MSU) marked the completion of the first phase of renovations to its Plant Science Research Greenhouse Complex during a May 14 event that brought together more than 100 stakeholders and partners.
The completed work includes new LED lighting, environmental control systems, replacement glazing panels, a new headhouse that serves as the facility’s operations center and taller greenhouse ceilings designed to accommodate crops such as corn and sorghum. The improvements support research on Michigan crops including corn, soybeans, blueberries, potatoes and floriculture varieties.
The greenhouse complex is used by nearly 70 faculty members from the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and the College of Natural Science, along with hundreds of staff and students. More than 400 people use the facility overall.
Approximately 60% of the greenhouse complex has now been renovated. The remaining 40% continues to operate with few or no upgrades, and the university plans to continue seeking funding through federal and state grants as well as support from private donors and industry organizations.
“The upgraded greenhouses are a testament to what can be accomplished through our great partnerships across Michigan agriculture,” Kang Xia, associate director of MSU AgBioResearch, said. “Our work is not finished. To reap the full benefit, and to meet the needs throughout Michigan agriculture now and in the future, the entire facility must adhere to this new quality standard.”
Read the full article on the Michigan State University AgBioResearch page.