Current Research

The Intermountain Research and Extension Center is a 140-acre research facility located at 4,000 feet elevation near the Oregon border. Crops IREC specializes in include potato, small grain, onion, peppermint, forage grasses and alfalfa; however, most cool season field and vegetable crops can be accommodated and grown on the Center. Research topics interest include variety development; integrated pest management; irrigation management, plant nutrition, and agriculture and wildlife interactions.

Available Center facilities and equipment include a greenhouse; controlled post harvest facility; drying ovens; an automated potato grading line; a mini-still for essential oil extraction; specialized small plot irrigation equipment; research adapted small plot planters and harvesters; and a full line of commercial farm equipment for field and vegetable crop production. Technical assistance is available for all farming practices, field instrumentation and data collection.

The Center's Research Advisory Committee Members (RAC ) will evaluate proposed research for scientific merit and regional need. Approved projects will be eligible for Center provided support—land, labor, technical assistance, equipment and facilities.

Questions about the research proposal process or about research opportunities at IREC should be directed to Rob Wilson, Center Director, or Darrin Culp, Center Superintendent at (530) 667-5117.

Project Proposal and Land, Labor & Facilities Request forms are available at the Universal Review System Website or the Intermountain Research & Extension Center Website.