By Megan Lutz, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Communications Service
Matt Helmers, an agricultural and biosystems engineering professor who holds the Dean's Professorship in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences is receiving the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Outstanding Extension Award.
Helmers is nationally recognized for his research on cropping system management and field drainage. He's a member of the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy Science Assessment team and leader of the nitrogen team for the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy, which strives to improve agricultural productivity and water quality. His accomplishments in science, teaching and obtaining research funding have benefited the state of Iowa.
Helmers began his career at Iowa State in 2003. He received his bachelor's degree in civil engineering from Iowa State in 1995, his master's degree from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University in civil engineering in 1997 and his doctorate degree in agricultural and biological systems engineering from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2003.
"I love agriculture and the Midwest," Helmers said.
Helmers finds the daily variety in his position enjoyable and interesting.
"It allows me to serve Iowans and I also think it allows me to keep abreast with what farmers and other stakeholders are concerned about in the area that I work with, which is water quality," Helmers said.
Even on his busy days, Helmers stresses the importance of taking time to understand the questions, comments and concerns of others. His favorite part of working in extension is going out and giving presentations and talking to people, especially when what you're applies to what they're doing.
The most important aspect of his work is bringing scientific information to farmers and other stakeholders related to water quality based on research.
Helmers centers his work and life around trying to treat people the way he wants to be treated as well getting feedback to continue to improve.
"I get to work with good people," Helmers said. "This university is so supportive with what I do, it's very rewarding."
Iowa State University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences will present awards to faculty and staff on March 8 at its Spring-Semester Convocation and Awards Program in the Memorial Union.
March 1, 2018