FSU Host First-Ever Edamame Field Picking Day
FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – Fayetteville State University (FSU) organized its first-ever Edamame Field Picking Day supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and North Carolina Collaborative Seed Grant at the Central Crop Research Station in Clayton, North Carolina on October 12-13. Soybean and Nitrogen Fixation Research of USDA-ARS, Virginia State University, and the Central Crop Research Station of North Carolina State University also collaborated in the event, which attracted more than 40 participants.
FSU’s Office of Sponsored Research and Lloyd College of Heath, Science, and Technology (CHST) developed the event as outreach to stakeholders interested in learning about notorious, health-conscious food options. It also showcased ongoing studies in nitrogen fixation – a process critical for soil health and crop sustainability – demonstrating the agricultural benefits of legumes like soybeans in enhancing soil quality and reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.
“We aim to bridge the gap between agricultural science and the public, sparking curiosity in sustainable food choices like edamame. This event serves as a welcoming introduction for those who wish to explore how science and technology contribute to producing healthy, environmentally friendly food alternatives” said Ganesh Bora, Ph.D., associate vice chancellor of research and innovation and chief research officer at FSU. Bora attended the event with his 12-year-old daughter who is extremely interested in biological science.
Afua Arhin, Ph.D., dean of FSU’s CHST, stated the event provided a learning platform for participants to gain first-hand knowledge of how edamame and similar crops are cultivated, harvested, and contribute to sustainable agriculture. “This interactive experience helped demystify scientific practices, making science both approachable and relevant, especially for those with an interest in healthy, sustainable food options,” said Arhin.
“The Edamame Picking Day event is a pivotal community-centered initiative that broadens public understanding of agricultural science while underscoring the health and environmental benefits of edamame. One primary advantage of the event is its accessibility, aimed at introducing science and technology concepts to those who might not traditionally engage in STEM fields,” Arhin added.
The event also served as a bridge between academic institutions, governmental research organizations and the public. By involving key stakeholders like Virginia State University Professor, Guoliang Jiang, experts from USDA-ARS Soybean and Nitrogen Fixation Research and the Central Crop Research Station at North Carolina State University, the Edamame Picking Day highlights the combined efforts in research, sustainability, and crop production innovations.
FSU undergraduate students Rikki Locklear, Nathan Kipyego, and Faith Kipkosgei from the Department of Biological and Forensic Sciences believe that the event encourages students, faculty, and researchers from Fayetteville State University and partnering institutions to communicate their work effectively to a broader audience.
This type of outreach helps reinforce the importance of sustainable farming practices, fosters community support, and promotes healthier food choices.” Said Keith Starke, the superintendent of the Central Crops Research Station.
“The Edamame Picking Day event is more than just a harvesting activity, it’s a comprehensive educational outreach initiative that promotes health, sustainability, and the value of agricultural science, while strengthening connections between academic research, local communities, and the future of food security and environmental stewardship.” said Jiazheng (John) Yuan, associate professor and assistant chair in the Department of Biological and Forensic Sciences at FSU. Yuan coordinated the event.