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Jack E. Rechcigl

John 'Jack’ Rechcigl is an American agronomist, soil and environmental scientist, researcher, editor, science advisor to foreign governments, university professor, and science administrator with the University of Florida. Rechcigl's extensive contributions span various facets of agricultural research, notably in vegetable, floral, and strawberry production, as well as breeding. He has garnered international recognition for his innovative approaches to agriculture and urban environments, earning a reputation as a visionary leader. Rechcigl's tenure as a science administrator is distinguished by his exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing scientific endeavors in agriculture and environmental studies. ^{[1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10]}

Biography

Rechcigl was born in Washington, DC and grew up in Rockville, Maryland. He graduated from the Univ. of Delaware, majoring in plant science (B.S., 1982), and studied soil science at Virginia Polytechnical Inst. and State Univ., Blacksburg, VA (M.S., 1983; PhD., 1986. ^[11]

He joined the faculty of the Univ. of Florida in 1986 as Asst. Professor of Soil Science and Water quality. ^[12] In 1991, he was promoted to Associate Professor ^[13] and in 1996 attained full Professorship. ^[14] In 1999, he was named Univ. of Florida Research Foundation Professor.

Initially, based at the Range Research and Education Center at Ona, FL (1985-2000), he conducted research on the fertilizer requirements of grasses and the effects of fertilizer on surface and ground water quality. This work led to the revision of fertility recommendations and the development of Best Management Practices (BMPs) for grass management, resulting in economic and environmental benefits.^[15]

In 2000, at the age of thirty, he became a science administrator, with the offer of being named to the position of Associate Director of the UF/IFAS Gulf Coast Research Center (GCREC) in Bradenton, FL.

Having accepted the offer, he attended additional Administrative training at Harvard University, prior to his appointment as the Center Director.^[16][17][18]

Gulf Coast Research and Education Center, Balm, FL

Following extensive consultations with farmers and elected representatives, the University, under the leadership of Rechcigl, committed to establishing a novel center. This undertaking necessitated Rechcigl's efforts in securing funding and conceptualizing a cutting-edge regional research and education facility. The center, subsequently situated in Balm, FL, was inaugurated to the public in 2005. Concurrently, Rechcigl orchestrated the closure of the former center and facilitated a seamless transition for faculty and staff to the new premises. ^{[19][20][21][22][23][24][25][26][27][28][29]}

Upon completion of the center's construction, Rechcigl assumed the responsibility of recruiting fresh faculty and staff, along with instituting innovative research, extension, and teaching initiatives. These endeavors aimed to empower growers with innovative solutions and technologies, ensuring their economic viability in a rapidly evolving global landscape. Today, the Gulf Coast Research Center stands as a beacon of national and international acclaim for its groundbreaking research in horticultural crops. It routinely attracts visits from esteemed scientists and government dignitaries worldwide, underscoring its pivotal role in advancing agricultural science and practice on a global scale.

While the Gulf Coast Research and Education Center (GCREC) maintains a primary focus on vegetables, small fruits, and ornamentals, the challenges associated with production costs and competition from international markets have underscored the necessity of exploring alternative crops for Florida's agricultural landscape.^[30][31] In response to this imperative, Rechcigl spearheaded the implementation and acquisition of funding for an alternative crops program. Among the initial crops scrutinized was hops, a crop gaining prominence amidst the burgeoning craft brewery industry and the increasing demand for locally sourced ingredients.^[32][33] Varieties of hops were meticulously assessed for suitability to Florida's growing conditions, and a comprehensive production plan was devised. Presently, ongoing evaluations encompass a range of crops, including artichoke, blackberry, raspberry, industrial hemp, and pomegranate.^[34] The overarching objective of this initiative is to cultivate new markets and empower growers to diversify their operations, thereby enhancing both profitability and sustainability within the agricultural sector.

The state-of-the-art Gulf Coast Research and Education Center (GCREC) operates across two distinct sites. The primary facility spans 475 acres in Balm, situated within southern Hillsborough County. This location serves as the hub for the Center's extensive research endeavors, encompassing laboratories, field and greenhouse studies, a diagnostic laboratory, faculty offices, and accommodation for up to 34 graduate students.^[35] Additionally, the GCREC's teaching program, affiliated with the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS CALS), is housed at Hillsborough Community College's Plant City campus. This multi-site operation enables the GCREC to facilitate comprehensive research, education, and outreach initiatives, contributing significantly to advancements in agricultural science and practice.^[36][37]

Center for Applied Artificial Intelligence in Agriculture

Researchers at the Gulf Coast Research and Education Center (GCREC) have pioneered the development of artificial intelligence (AI) technology tools tailored for the detection and identification of weeds in strawberry and vegetable production. This breakthrough has culminated in the creation of the first prototype "smart sprayer," equipped with AI capabilities for precise herbicide application. This innovative technology, growers can significantly reduce broadcast applications, leading to a remarkable 90 percent reduction in herbicide usage and substantial cost savings. ^[46][47][48]

Furthermore, GCREC researchers have embarked on groundbreaking work exploring the efficacy of ultraviolet (UV) light as an alternative method for controlling disease pathogens. In collaboration with the Norwegian University of Life Sciences, researchers have engineered a GPS-guided robot capable of emitting UV light to combat powdery mildew on strawberry plants.^[49]

Driven by Dr. Rechcigl's vision, the University of Florida is set to establish a 40,000-square-foot artificial intelligence (AI) hub at the Gulf Coast Research and Education Center in Balm. Through collaborative efforts with stakeholders, Dr. Rechcigl played a pivotal role in securing the requisite funding for the construction of this innovative facility. Dubbed the Center for Applied Artificial Intelligence in Agriculture, this state-of-the-art hub will serve as a premier research, extension, and development facility. ^[50][51][52]

At the AI hub, scientists specializing in AI will collaborate with researchers across UF/IFAS to explore innovative strategies for breeding plants resistant to pests and diseases, thereby enhancing crop yields for farmers. Dr. Rechcigl anticipates that the center will directly employ approximately one hundred individuals, including computer scientists, mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, AI specialists, graduate students, and support staff, underscoring its significance as a catalyst for agricultural innovation and economic growth.

Artificial Intelligence holds tremendous potential to make our world more prosperous and secure, while misuse of AI can lead to cybersecurity issues. During a visit to Tampa, the Acting Principal Deputy National Cyber Director and White House officials toured the University of Florida Gulf Coast Research and Education Center (GCREC) to learn about the artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics hub that is being established there and discuss opportunities available to ensure cybersecurity is incorporated into the center from the very beginning.^[53]

Florida Agricultural Expo

In 2006, Rechcigl played a pivotal role in establishing the Florida Agricultural Expo, an annual event attended by over 1,000 individuals including farmers, politicians, government officials, and university representatives from across the nation.^[54] This seminar and trade show, organized in collaboration with the University of Florida, Florida Fruit and Vegetable Associations, Florida Grower magazine, Florida Strawberry Growers Association, and the Florida Tomato Committee, is primarily aimed at the state's vegetable and strawberry producers.

For more than 17 years, the Florida Ag Expo has provided specialty crop growers with a platform to gather, network, and stay informed about the latest research developments in fruit and vegetable production. Hosted at the Gulf Coast Research and Education Center, the event serves as a hub for research activities in the field.^[55] The Expo features educational seminars and field tours, allowing attendees to observe research trials firsthand.^[56] These tours cover various aspects of crop management, including pest control, new varieties, alternative crops, fertilization, and irrigation.^[57] Additionally, attendees can earn pesticide license continuing education units and Certified Crop Adviser credits through the seminars and field tours. ^[58]

The trade show segment of the Expo displays vendors offering essential inputs, products, and services required for successful crop production. Over the years, the Florida Ag Expo has become a valuable resource for specialty crop growers, facilitating collaboration, innovation, and knowledge sharing within the agricultural community.^[59]

Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center, Davie, FL

In addition to his current administrative responsibilities at the Gulf Coast Research and Education Center (GCREC), Rechcigl assumed roles of increasing leadership at the Ft. Lauderdale Research and Education Center (FLREC), located in Davie, FL. ^[38] Initially appointed as Interim Director, ^[39] he later secured the position of Center Director. ^[40][41][42] FLREC's research initiatives encompass sustainable management for tropical and subtropical landscape systems, with a focus on mitigating the impact of invasive species on natural and urban habitats. Research areas also include termite identification, wildlife ecology, palm production, environmental horticulture, aquatic plant management, turfgrass science, and sea-level resilience in South Florida.^[43]

Under Rechcigl's guidance, FLREC expanded its faculty, particularly in the field of palm horticulture, assembling a diverse team of scientists dedicated to assisting palm growers in Florida and neighboring tropical regions in combatting palm diseases. Collaborating with the palm industry, Rechcigl initiated Palm Quest, an annual educational event tailored to palm growers.^[44] Additionally, he established an interdisciplinary turf team comprising experts in horticulture, weed science, soil science, plant pathology, entomology, and nematology, addressing critical challenges faced by turfgrass growers in South Florida.

International Activities

Dr. Rechcigl's research has garnered significant international attention, resulting in invitations to speak about his findings in various countries, including the Philippines, Taiwan, Australia, Brazil, Venezuela, Nicaragua, Ecuador, and the Czech Republic. Notably, his work has influenced several nations to adopt phosphogypsum as a fertilizer, a departure from previous practices of disposing it in the ocean as waste. ^[60]

Collaborating closely with universities worldwide, Dr. Rechcigl has played a pivotal role in modernizing laboratory techniques utilized in soil and tissue analysis. His expertise in the utilization of inorganic and organic wastes in agriculture has earned him keynote addresses at prestigious events, further solidifying his reputation as a thought leader in the field.

Europe

Rechcigl played a pivotal role in establishing a research and teaching memorandum of understanding between the University of Florida and Prague Czech Agricultural University in Suchdol, Czech Republic. This landmark agreement, signed in the Czech Senate, paved the way for numerous student and scientist exchanges and research collaborations. As a testament to his contributions, Rechcigl was bestowed with an Honorary Professorship from Prague Czech Agricultural University.

Additionally, Rechcigl facilitated collaborative arrangements during his visits to various cities in the Czech Republic, including České Budĕjovice, Olomouc, and Ostrava, as well as in Nitra, Slovakia. Notably, he signed a joint research agreement between the University of Florida and Palacký University in Olomouc, Czech Republic. During this visit, it was decided to host the first tri-university research symposium involving the two universities and the University of Naples in Italy. The primary objective of this symposium was to facilitate the exchange of technical information and promote collaborative research endeavors among the participating institutions.^[61]

Asia

As a result of extensive visits across the Philippine Islands, a collaborative research proposal was formulated involving multiple research institutions and the University of Florida. This initiative aimed to assess the viability of various industrial waste products as potential fertilizers. Additionally, meetings were held with the Rector and Dean for Research at the University of the Philippines to orchestrate a cooperative research and exchange agreement between the University of the Philippines and the University of Florida.

Philippine Government officials extended an invitation to Rechcigl to provide consultation on the utilization of phosphogypsum for addressing the nation's soil physical and chemical issues. This endeavor entailed a comprehensive tour of the country, encompassing visits to research institutions on different islands, delivering lectures, and offering guidance on the utilization of industrial by-products in agriculture.

Australia

He was invited to Australia to advise the companies on how fertilizer could be used in reducing grass tetany in cattle. As a result of his visit, a cooperative research proposal was developed between various research institutions and UF to evaluate the effectiveness of industrial waste products as fertilizers.

South America

He received an invitation from the Brazilian Government to convene with scientists from multiple universities for potential research collaborations. Additionally, the Government of Brazil extended the invitation and he engaged with fertilizer and seed companies' researchers and salespeople to discuss future cooperative plans with the University of Florida.

Rechcigl was invited by the Venezuelan government's fertilizer company, PALMVIN, and the Potash and Phosphate Institute to engage with diverse agricultural groups and industry scientists concerning the nation's soil fertility challenges. In addition to delivering lectures and seminars, he conducted visits to numerous farms across the country, offering guidance on soil fertility issues. Rechcigl also provided instructions to Venezuelan officials on the utilization of industrial waste products, such as phosphogypsum, as potential fertilizers. His recommendations were embraced, leading to the adoption of phosphogypsum as a marketed fertilizer for Venezuelan farmers.

He was dispatched to Ecuador as part of an IFAS review team tasked with evaluating programs at the Escuela Superior Politecnica del Litoral (ESPOL) and assessing their suitability for collaboration with UF in research, extension, and teaching. Furthermore, he contributed to designing floor plans and offering advice on equipment procurement for a new agricultural soil and plant diagnostic laboratory at ESPOL. Subsequently, the University of Florida's Vice President appointed him to the IFAS Ecuador Task Force, charged with formulating concrete plans and agendas for collaboration between the two institutions.

North and Central America

Rechcigl was enlisted by the Potash Phosphate Industry to aid the University of Nicaragua in modernizing their Soil and Plant Tissue Testing Laboratory, while also providing guidance on sustainable agriculture practices. Additionally, he signed Letters of Intent for cooperative agreements with the Minister of Agriculture of the Dominican Republic and the Minister of Agriculture of the Nicaraguan Institute for Agricultural Research. These agreements aimed to establish student exchange programs and collaborate on joint research proposals focused on improving the production of horticultural crops.^[62]

University Governance and Service

Dr. Rechcigl has contributed significantly to various Universities and Professional Society boards and committees throughout his career. He has been actively involved in several professional industrial societies, notably participating in policy committees such as the Fertilizer Agrochemical Advisory Committee. Moreover, he has served on multiple advisory boards and task forces tasked with developing fertilizer recommendations, best management practices, and regulations for environmentally safe applications of fertilizers, as well as inorganic and organic wastes.

At the community level, Dr. Rechcigl has dedicated his time to serving on the Environmental Committee for the Manatee Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, he has volunteered as a judge for numerous public school science fairs, fostering educational initiatives. Furthermore, as an Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America, he actively served as a leader, mentoring youth, and contributing to their personal development.

Dr. Rechcigl's expertise has often been sought as an invitational reviewer for competitive grant proposals across multiple agencies, including USAID, USDA, the Florida Institute of Phosphate Research, the Florida Recycling Institute, and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

Furthermore, Dr. Rechcigl has held editorial roles, serving as Associate Editor for the Soil and Crop Science Society Proceedings and the Journal of Environmental Quality. Additionally, he has contributed to Food, Agriculture, and Environment, serving on the editorial board of the International Journal of Soil and Water Research, published by the Czech Academy of Agricultural Sciences. These editorial positions underscore his dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and disseminating research findings in the field of agriculture and environmental science.