Myakka gives a special identity to the Department of Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences.
It is the Seminole word for “big waters” and the name of Florida’s state soil: Florida's State Soil - Myakka Fine Sand.
2181 McCarty Hall A, PO Box 110290 | Gainesville, FL 32611-0290 | (352) 294-3151
Greetings, from the Department of Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences.
I am honored to begin my role as Chair of the Department of Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences (SWES). It’s been a pleasure to meet faculty, staff, and many students around the state since joining the University of Florida on January 1, and to begin learning about the people, programs, and partnerships that make this department so exceptional. I even had the opportunity to meet some of our emeritus faculty members at the department's spring picnic, including one of my Chair predecessors, Dr. Randy Brown!
Before joining UF/IFAS, I served as a professor of soil ecology and biogeochemistry in the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Management at the University of Hawaii Manoa. Bridging from Hawaii to Florida, I bring a collaborative, vision-driven leadership approach that values transparency, shared governance, and a deep commitment to mentoring and community engagement. I am excited to work together to build on the SWES Department’s strong foundation while expanding our impact through strategic partnerships, interdisciplinary research, and mission-oriented initiatives that enhance soil, water, and ecosystem resilience.
In my first months as Chair, I traveled across the state to visit UF/IFAS Research and Education Centers and units where SWES faculty and graduate students conduct their work. These visits, along with many thoughtful conversations both in Gainesville and around the state, helped shape my understanding of our opportunities and priorities. Several themes emerged, including the importance of our facilities (both their current state and future needs), our analytical capacity, and planning further development of the Experiential Learning Lab and programmatic goals. I am also focused on supporting our outstanding lecturers, whose contributions are essential to our core programs and to the student experience both in and out of the classroom.
Seeing SWES faculty, staff, and students in action is inspiring! In April, I had the chance to participate in and deliver the keynote address at the UF/IFAS Soil Health and Cover Crop Workshop at the Everglades Research and Education Center. Events like this highlight the real-world impact of our work and the strength of our extension and outreach efforts.
Looking ahead, I am pleased to share that SWES will be conducting three faculty searches in the coming year: a Soils and Forage position at the Range Cattle Research and Education Center with research and extension responsibilities, an Instructional Assistant Professor position on the main campus, and a Soils Ecoinformatics position with research and teaching responsibilities. These hires represent important investments in our future and in the continued growth of our programs.
Finally, I want to recognize the department’s outstanding national standing. SWES is currently tied for #1 among AAU-listed land-grant peers and ranked #3 among all AAU peers, driven by strong scholarly output in publications and citations. This is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the dedication and excellence of our faculty, their research team members, and our dedicated administrative staff. We have exciting opportunities to grow in areas such as awards, high-impact publications, and diversified funding portfolios, and I look forward to embarking on the next phase together.
Thank you for the warm welcome and all you do to advance the mission of SWES. I am excited to continue learning from you and working together as we shape the next chapter of the department. I hope to tap into our vast alumni network to explore research and commercialization opportunities as well as strengthen our academic programs to better prepare students for their future careers. Please do not hesitate to contact me at crows@ufl.edu.
Meet Paul M. White, a new UF/IFAS soil scientist whose work is rooted in both agriculture and innovation. From growing up on a family farm in Arkansas to leading research on soil health and nutrient management across the Southeast, Dr. White brings decades of experience to Florida’s diverse agricultural landscape. In this Q&A, he shares what sparked his passion for soil science, his plans to improve crop productivity while protecting water resources, and the challenges ahead.
After more than two decades of service to research, education and outreach in soil and water science, Alan L. Wright is retiring. A Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences (SWES) professor of soil and water quality, he conducted his research and extension work at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Indian River Research and Education Center (IRREC). His career has left a lasting imprint on Florida agriculture, environmental stewardship and the scientific community.
Wright joined IRREC in Fort Pierce in 2015 as an associate professor and was later promoted to professor. He brought with him a strong foundation from his earlier role at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Everglades Research and Education Center in Belle Glade. He devoted his career to understanding the complex relationships between soil, water and sustainable agricultural systems.
With a commitment to improving water quality and advancing agricultural practices, Wright’s research focused on nutrient cycling. This included optimizing phosphorus management in cropping systems and studying the role of recycled waste byproducts in vegetable production. His work consistently addressed real-world challenges facing growers and water managers.
Alan Wright in his lab at Indian River Research and Education Center (IRREC) in July 2019. (UF/IFAS Photo by Tyler Jones)
A significant portion of his research explored the connections between agricultural lands and wetlands, especially in the Everglades and the Indian River region. His contributions to stormwater treatment area research and wetland restoration helped shape strategies across South Florida. Outside the lab, Wright worked closely with growers, commodity organizations and water managers to share practical, research-based solutions. He used field days, training sessions and community events to translate science into action. His engagement with schools and local communities also fostered greater awareness of agricultural stewardship and conservation.
Wright received numerous awards throughout his career, including the University Term Professorship Award, the University of Florida Research Foundation Professorship and the Gamma Sigma Delta Junior Faculty Award of Merit. He also earned distinction as an outstanding reviewer for the Journal of Environmental Quality. As a member of the American Society of Agronomy, Crop Science Society of America and Soil Science Society of America, Wright served in leadership roles, held editorial positions, and mentored and judged student competitions. His involvement helped guide the next generation of scientists and strengthen the broader scientific community.
Wright earned a B.S. in bioenvironmental sciences and an M.S. in soil science from Texas A&M University. He earned a Ph.D. in soil and water science from the University of Florida. From his lab in Fort Pierce to field sites across the Indian River District and the Everglades Agricultural Area, Wright’s work has had far-reaching impacts. We wish him well in his retirement!
Cedar Key project aims to rebuild ecosystems that make shorelines resilient.
Read more about how the Gulf Futures Challenge finalist is helping vulnerable coastal communities.
The Nature Coast Student Organization showcased its research for the community at its inaugural event.
NCSO members presenting posters or "speed talks" include Alex Walus (SNRE, Dr. Hensel), Lindsey "Smitty" Smith (SWES, Dr. Reynolds), Finella Campanino (SNRE, Drs. Reynolds & Barry), and Stasia Pietraszun (SNRE, Drs. Adams & Reynolds).
More than 50 experts gathered this spring at a UF/IFAS-led workshop to address one of South Florida’s most persistent water quality challenges: phosphorus. Through field tours near Lake Okeechobee and collaborative discussions, participants explored new technologies and practical strategies for improving nutrient management. The event highlights how science-driven partnerships are shaping the future of water and agriculture. Read how these efforts are advancing phosphorus sustainability in Florida.
Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences
(Advisors in parentheses)
Yasmeen Saleem (Kadyampakeni & Agehara)
Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences
(Advisors in parentheses)
Wesley Avery III (Inglett)
Noelle Colaianni (Reisinger)
Alireza Ghaderi Bafti (Fujimoto)
Elizabeth Kelly (Reisinger)
Katerina Korolov (Clark)
Lindsey La Sasso (Ellis)
Katherine "Mack" Redburn (Deitch)
Tenley Turrell (Whiles)
Devon Villareal-Dabbs (Fujimoto)
Soil and Water Sciences
(Advisors in parentheses)
Hailey Page (Wright)
Monika Ross (Inglett)
Fertilizer Science and Technology
(Advisor: Daroub)
Jose Luis Prieto Fajardo
Soil Ecosystem Services
(Advisor: Strauss)
Katherine Morris
Soil, Water, and Public Health
(Advisor: Meyer)
Md Anik Mahmud
Sustainable Land Resource and Nutrient Management
(Advisor: Daroub)
Noor Basar
Hailey Page
Daniel Sutton
Gurjoban Tiwana
Clay Wood
Wetland and Water Resource Management
(Advisor: Clark)*
Hayden Casey
Leisa Futo
Laura Pardal
Katherine "Mack" Redburn
James Stowe
* With this cohort, Dr. Mark Clark, associate professor of wetland ecology, has advised more than 100 students in the Wetland and Water Resource Management graduate certificate program since it began in 2014.
Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences
(Advisors: Bonczek & Sisk)
Nathan Goyer, Water Science specialization
Jade Hua, Soil Science specialization
Michael Mantone, Soil Science specialization
Erin Petersen, Water Science specialization
CALS Dean Kati Migliaccio with our Spring 2026 B.S. degree graduates.
Interdisciplinary Studies: Environmental Management in Agriculture and Natural Resources
(Advisors: Enloe, Fletcher & Sisk)
Makena Burgio
Kimberly Garcia
Alana Parker
Andres Ruisanchez
Jordan Simpson
Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences
Abigail Borgman
Andrew Lebowitz
Erik Ruszkowski
Skyler Sanderson
Soil and Water Sciences
Carrie Phelps
Brooke Saunders
Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences
(Minor Representative in parentheses)
Ester Ricken (Nair)
Support the future of environmental stewardship and agricultural innovation through the UF/IFAS Department of Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences. Tax-deductible gifts help enhance teaching, research, extension programs, and student opportunities through scholarships, fellowships, and program enrichment funds.
Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences
Raelyn Burr (Daroub-temporary)
Elizabeth Casillas (Daroub-temporary)
Alyssa Chiascione (Daroub-temporary)
Jacob Eickstead (Daroub-temporary)
Nathan Goyer (Inglett)
Mark Mumpande (Kadyampakeni)
Mark Romulus (Daroub-temporary)
Timothy Thibault (Daroub-temporary)
FNU Vikash (Mackowiak)
Interdisciplinary Studies: Environmental Management in Agriculture and Natural Resources
(Advisors: Enloe & Sisk)
Jazmine Angelica Castro-Diaz
Joshua Geller
Jilyanne Hiltibidal
Samantha Johnson
Aishee Mondal
Emily Owens
Megan Slovisky
Styng Turrill
Suraj Melkani is a recipient of the Gerald O. Mott Meritorious Graduate Student Award in Crop Science from the Crop Science Society of America (CSSA).
Dr. Davie Kadyampakeni, associate professor of citrus water and nutrient management, is recipient of the 2026 Conservation Research Award from the Soil and Water Conservation Society (of the U.S. and Canada).
Dr. Lakesh Sharma, assistant professor of soil fertility and sustainable nutrient management, and Dr. Davie Kadyampakeni are recipients of the Art Hornsby Distinguished Extension Professional and Enhancement Award from UF/IFAS.
Dr. Ann Wilkie, research professor of bioenergy and sustainable technology, is a recipient of the Catalyst Award from the UF Center for Undergraduate Research (CUR). She is one of five faculty members from the original group of CUR mentors, 15-years ago, who are still guiding undergraduates through research projects today.
Samuel T. Oluwatuyi (Kadyampakeni & Lusk) was elected to the Executive Board of the UF Graduate Student Council for the 2026-2027 session. He will serve as the Grants Chair.
Duplicate Sambani (Kadyampakeni) is the recipient of a 2026 World Congress of Soil Science Travel Fellowship to attend the World Congress of Soil Science in China, June 2026.
Doctoral student Ashley Hennessey (Reisinger) tied for second place in the poster presentation competition at the 2026 Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) Southeast Chapter Meeting with her poster titled "Acclimation in Action: Recycled Water Boosts Nutrient Uptake over Time."
Labake Agunbiade, Lopes Bonda, Monika Peddapuli (all advised by Kadyampakeni) are recipients of an IFAS Travel Grant to attend the Florida State Horticultural Society, Annual Meeting and Conference in Jacksonville, June 2026. Labake also received a UF Graduate School Travel Award.
Sigma Xi Scientific Research Honor Society, UF Chapter, inducted Dr. Davie Kadyampakeni and his doctoral student, Duplicate Sambani, as members.
Dr. Audrey Goeckner (MS 2020, PhD 2024) is the recipient of the Society for Freshwater Science's Hynes Award for New Investigators. The honor recognizes a freshwater scientist who was senior author on an outstanding primary publication within the past three years. Her 2024 ecosystem-scale study of net N2 flux in urban water bodies found that stormwater ponds can be as likely to be net N‑fixing as denitrifying. A dedicated mentor and leader who has founded Women in Science groups and engaged K–12 students as well as regulators, Dr. Goeckner is now a postdoctoral researcher at UC Santa Barbara studying methane fluxes in the Congo Basin.
Nature Coast Currents
The Association of Natural Resource Extension Professionals awarded the Nature Coast Currents webinar series a Gold (Promotional & Marketing Materials category) and Bronze (Webinars category). It also won the top state honors for webinar (2nd Place) and outreach efforts (1st Place).
A collaborative team that includes Dr. Savanna Barry, Dr. Laura Reynolds, Finella Campanino, and Emily Colson produced the program series. It continues to expand its reach and impact across Florida:
Vanesa Rostan Carrasquera is the first SWES graduate student to earn the prestigious Jack L. Fry Graduate Student Teaching Award.
Finella Campanino (Reynolds & Barry) is a recipient of the 2025-26 Graduate School Mentoring Award. It recognizes graduate students who go the extra mile by mentoring fellow UF students, K-12 students, or K-12 teachers. The Graduate School reviews an applicant's academic and professional accomplishments, mentoring philosophy, mentoring effectiveness, and their impact on their mentees’ academic and professional growth.
2026 UF Superior Accomplishment Awards
Congratulations to Dr. Chris Wilson, SWES professor in Gainesville, and Brittney Monus, SWES biological scientist and lab manager at the UF/IFAS Southwest Florida REC. Both are recipients of the University of Florida Superior Accomplishment Awards for individual employee performance. Dr. Wilson received the Faculty Award, while Brittney received the Health Care and Physical Sciences Award. Additionally, they, along with Emily Colson (EMANR student), received Superior Accomplishment Awards at the UF/IFAS level. Read more here.
UF CALS Dean Kati Migliaccio presents a Superior Accomplishment Award to Emily Colson for her work as the UF/IFAS Nature Coast Biological Station's Communications Specialist and K-12 Education Coordinator.
Congratulations to Dr. Davie Kadyampakeni for his election as vice chair, Environmental Quality Section, of the Agronomy Society of America.
The recipients of this year's Editor's Citation for Excellence for reviewers and associate editors for all journals published by ASA, CSSA, and SSSA include several SWES faculty and alumni:
Dr. Shuo Chen, postdoctoral associate in Dr. Reisinger's Urban Ecosystem Ecology Lab, was awarded 3rd Place in the inaugural UF Postdoctoral Association Seminar Series. Her talk title was “Human decisions and landscape management affect water quality and microbial nutrient acquisition strategy in Florida stormwater ponds.”
Graduating SWES senior (Soil Science specialization) Michael Mantone presented the results of his undergraduate research project at the UF CLUE Urban Landscape Summit. He evaluated how prior pond management influenced algal sensitivity to copper applications. Michael conducted the research as an intern in Dr. AJ Reisinger's Urban Ecosystem Ecology Lab.
Congratulations to Agustin (Gus) Francisco (BS 2016) and Dr. Joshua Papacek (PhD 2018) for graduating from the Florida Natural Resources Leadership Institute. As NRLI Class 25 fellows, they completed the 8-month program (3-day sessions each month across the state). Gus is an environmental consultant in the FDACS Office of Agricultural Water Policy. Josh is an environmental scientist with the St. Johns River Water Management District.
UF/IFAS Dean of Extension Andra Johnson (left) with Dr. Jango Bhadha, associate professor of soil, water, and nutrient management, after receiving the Florida Association of Natural Resource Extension Professionals 2026 Outstanding Specialist Award. FANREP recognized him for “Promoting Soil Health & Sustainability Statewide and Beyond.”
