The USDA’s Agricultural Research Service and Cornell University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences broke ground today on the new National Grape Improvement Center at the Cornell AgriTech campus.
The 70,000-square-foot facility will house the ARS Grape Genetics Research Unit and ARS Plant Genetic Resources Unit. It will also host four Cornell grapevine research projects, aiming to improve U.S. grape production and combat climate change. Agriculture Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small highlighted the center’s role in enhancing food security and building a resilient food system.
The center will foster collaboration between ARS and Cornell researchers to advance grape production through breeding and technology. “This facility provides resources for innovation and enhanced grape quality,” said ARS Administrator Dr. Simon Liu. Cornell Provost Michael Kotlikoff expressed gratitude for the federal investment, emphasizing the Finger Lakes as a hub for cold climate grape research.
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