Rattan Lal talks climate-resilient agriculture at k-state

By Scout Nelson

On March 26, Kansas State University will host a notable agriculture and soil science event. Rattan Lal, a leading figure in soil-centric agricultural practices aimed at enhancing global food security and developing farming methods resilient to climate change, will deliver the 2024 Roscoe Ellis, Jr. Lecture in Soil Science.

His presentation, titled "Sustainable Agriculture and Soil Management for Climate and Food Security," is scheduled for 4 p.m. in the Regnier Forum, located in K-State's Regnier Hall. The event is open to the public without any charge.

Rattan Lal holds the prestigious position of Distinguished University Professor of Soil Science at The Ohio State University, where he also directs the Rattan Lal Center for Carbon Management and Sequestration.

His upcoming visit provides an unparalleled opportunity for the K-State community to interact with a globally recognized expert in the domains of soil science, carbon management, and sustainable agricultural practices.

Carbon sequestration, a key focus of Lal's work, involves the capture and storage of atmospheric carbon dioxide in solid or liquid forms, a critical process for mitigating climate change impacts on agriculture.

Nathan Nelson, a soil scientist and professor at K-State's Department of Agronomy, highlights the importance of understanding carbon cycling in agriculture to improve resilience to climate change, enhance sustainability, and transition towards regenerative agricultural systems.

Lal's contributions to soil science and sustainable agriculture are globally acknowledged, evidenced by his numerous accolades, including the 2020 World Food Prize and the 2019 Japan Prize.

His research encompasses a broad range of topics such as soil carbon dynamics, soil erosion, and sustainable soil and water management, with a strong emphasis on soil health and the efficient use of agro-ecosystems.

The lecture presents a valuable learning opportunity for students, faculty, and community members to gain insights from Dr. Lal's extensive research and experience.

It also continues the legacy of the Roscoe Ellis, Jr. Lectureship in Soil Science at K-State, now in its 39th year, established to honor the memory of a dedicated faculty member and to foster advancements in soil science through engagement with distinguished scholars.

Raj Khosla, head of K-State’s Department of Agronomy, encourages everyone to attend and be inspired by Dr. Lal's work, emphasizing the lecture as an excellent chance to engage with cutting-edge research in soil science and sustainable agriculture.

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