Blog

Over the next 12 months, we'll be celebrating 250 years of America in Virginia. Scientific research in 1776 laid the foundation for many of the innovations we see today in the fields of medicine, chemistry, engineering and more. By looking back, we gain a better understanding of our scientific present and future!

In 1776, wheat and tobacco were the main agricultural products grown and exported in Virginia. However, European settlers brought saw-toothed grain beetles to the Americas, one of many pests that they had to worry about in their food source.

Pesticides, insect-resistant crops and thorough cleaning and packaging procedures combat this issue, securing our food supplies. The Department of Agriculture, created in 1862, now works to reduce food waste, improve global food security and ensure food health and safety. However, overuse of pesticides can pollute the environment and affect farmers' or consumers’ health.

Currently, researchers are exploring the use of robotics and automation to assist with pest control in agriculture. Cameras and computers could recognize signs of pests in a small part of the field and alert farmers to treat it. Localized pesticide control would reduce the total amount of pesticides used, helping farmers save time and money, and reducing the environmental impact.

Relevant Virginia Standards of Learning include: 6.9, BIO .5, MSCSE-18.AP.1, VS.4