Problem Solving Through Collaboration

  

The Yuma Center of Excellence for Desert Agriculture is figuring out ways to maximize production to get the most crop per drop! Whether is saving water, avoiding plant disease, or applying technology, YCEDA is helping farmers to produce more food with fewer inputs. This is better for the farmer, better for the environment, and better for a hungry world!

Paul Brierley, Inaugural YCEDA Executive Director

The Yuma Center of Excellence for Desert Agriculture (YCEDA) is dedicated to bringing scientific research and industry together to find solutions that bring value to stakeholders by addressing "on-the-ground" needs of Desert Ag production. Donor support enables us to forge alliances, initiate projects, and secure grant funding to maximize the impact of our work. Those joining the Yuma Center of Excellence for Desert Agriculture make a tax-deductible financial commitment administered through the University of Arizona Foundation. For more information on becoming a supporting partner, please contact us.

Investors

Advisory Council

The YCEDA Advisory Council guides the YCEDA Executive Director on the focus of the research and programs for the center

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robbie barkley

Robert Barkley

Chair

  • President & CEO
    Barkley Ag Enterprises

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Victor Smith

Victor Smith

Vice Chair

  • CEO
    JV Smith Companies

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John D'Arrigo

John D'Arrigo

Member

  • President & CEO, Chairman of the Board
    D'Arrigo Bros. Co., of California

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Rob Plaice

Rob Plaice

Member

  • Global Development Manager
    Gowan Co.

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Mark Smith

Mark Smith

Member

  • President
    Smith Farms Company of Yuma, Inc.

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Mark Stover

Mark Stover

Member

  • Director of Yuma/Imperial Farming Operations
    Tanimura & Antle

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Jesus Tovar

Member

  • President
    T & P Farms INC

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Tanya Hodges

Dr. Tanya Hodges

YCEDA Executive Director

  • Executive Director
    Yuma Center of Excellence for Desert Agriculture

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Shane Burgess

Dr. Shane Burgess

Ex-Officio Member

  • Vice President for Agriculture, Life and Veterinary Sciences, and Cooperative Extension; Charles-Sander Dean, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
    University of Arizona

Technical Experts

Leadership Team

  • Dr. Tanya Hodges
    thodges@arizona.edu
    YCEDA Executive Director
  • Stephanie Slinski
    sslinski@arizona.edu
    YCEDA Associate Director, Applied Research & Development
  • Sonnet Nelson
    YCEDA Associate Director, Operations
  • Andrew French
    YCEDA Research Development Professional, Water Use Efficiency
  • Brenda Barry
    CALES Director of Corporate Relations
  • Alex Strong
    amstrong@arizona.edu
    CALES Director of Development
  • Connor Osgood
    connoro@arizona.edu
    YCEDA Research Development Professional, AgTech Program

YCEDA Staff

  • Jasmine Miranda
    Research Technician
  • Michelle Rodriguez
    Research Technician
  • Rico Sanchez
    Farm Attendant

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