First Recipients Named for Excellence in Applied Research Award

AMES, Iowa — Two professors in the Iowa State University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences are the first recipients of a new award named for a former college dean. The Dean Lee R. Kolmer Award for Excellence in Applied Research was presented Sept. 7 to Antonio P. Mallarino, soil fertility professor and extension specialist in the agronomy department, and Leo Timms, animal science professor and dairy extension specialist in the animal science department. The award, made possible by a gift from Lee and Jean Kolmer, recognizes faculty and staff within the college who have made significant contributions to improving the welfare of the people of Iowa through applied research. It's named for former Dean of Agriculture Lee Kolmer, who died in January 2010. Kolmer began his 14-year tenure as dean in 1972, and led the college through the farm crisis of the 1980s. Under his leadership, the college launched a successful effort to increase public investment in agricultural research. Mallarino has implemented a strong applied research program that focuses on soil fertility, nutrient management and related soil management for efficient crop production and environmental stewardship. His research has resulted in significant improvement in Iowa of nutrient management practices for conservation tillage, soil testing and environmental phosphorus assessment. Mallarino's applied research efforts have had a positive impact on the productivity and profitability of Iowa farmers, the professional education of crop advisers and improved phosphorus management affecting water quality. Timms has established a nationally and internationally recognized research program in dairy. Although he does not have a formal research appointment, he was recognized for his contributions in applied research related to dairy physiology and management that provides guidance to Iowa's dairy industry. Timms' research has focused on enhanced animal health, mastitis prevention, milk quality and dairy profitability that transcribes into higher quantities of high quality, nutritious and safe dairy products for consumers, as well as a more vibrant Iowa dairy industry that enhances local community economic vitality. Wendy Wintersteen, endowed dean for the ISU College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, presented the awards to Mallarino and Timms during the college's fall convocation.