Last Friday, I traveled to Mizzou’s Fisher Delta Research, Extension and Education Center (FD-REEC) in Portageville for the ceremonial groundbreaking of the Roy Blunt Soil Testing and Research Laboratory. We were honored that former U.S. Sen. Blunt joined us for the celebration, as well as numerous state and university leaders who were critical to developing this important facility. Also attending were Shelly and Stacey, the wife and daughter of Jake Fisher – the longtime superintendent and namesake of the center who passed away last year.

When completed, the Roy Blunt Soil Testing and Research Laboratory will cover more than 6,000 square feet. Its advanced resources will combine the latest testing technology with science-based recommendations to positively impact Missouri agriculture. The services offered are unique and currently unavailable in the Bootheel region.

I want to recognize Sen. Blunt and his incredible commitment to Missouri farmers. I’m also grateful for our many additional supporters, including Mo. Department of Agriculture Director Chris Chinn, Mo. Sen. Jason Bean, former Mo. Rep. Don Rone, Curator Keith Holloway, CEO and Executive Director for the Missouri Soybean Association Gary Wheeler, CAFNR Vice Chancellor and Dean Chris Daubert, Vice Chancellor for Extension and Engagement Chad Higgins and FD-REEC Advisory Board Chair Trent Haggard. Thanks also to the Delta Regional Authority, the Bootheel Regional Planning and Economic Development Commission, Robert Cook and Laura Collins with the Southeast Missouri Regional Water District and the FD-REEC Advisory Board, as well as the center’s dedicated staff. 

We are thrilled to bring this incredible resource to the Bootheel. We’re also pleased to honor Sen. Blunt’s enduring advocacy for science and agriculture in our state.

— Mun