My name is Giuliano Galdi, and I am the new UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE) Agronomy and Weed Management Advisor located in Merced County, and also with responsibilities in Stanislaus and San Joaquin counties. In San Joaquin county, my primary responsibility will be in weed management. I received my B.S. in Agricultural Engineering at the University of Sao Paulo and my M.S. degree in Plant Sciences at California State University, Fresno.

I'm back in the San Joaquin Valley after spending four years of my early career as the UCCE Agronomy and Crops Advisor in Siskiyou County. My previous research and extension program in Siskiyou county was focused on alfalfa, pasture, small grains, pest control, and water management. I worked on projects such as cool-season perennial grass deficit irrigation, dryland small grain and alfalfa variety trials, winter groundwater recharge, Roundup Ready alfalfa injury, and soil moisture sensing.

My first goal in this new position is to understand the needs of my local clientele and tailor my research program accordingly. My ultimate objectives are to be a source of science-based information, guarantee sustainable and long-lasting agriculture, and help to protect natural resources. Collaborating with growers, PCAs, and industry partners is key to a successful research program, so I look forward to meeting my clientele and integrating with the counties' community.

 

Giuliano Galdi
Agronomy and Weed Management Advisor
UC Cooperative Extension Merced, Stanislaus, and San Joaquin counties

 

Original source: UC ANR San Joaquin County Field Notes newsletter ι August 2023