Subject Matter Centers

CAHNRS scientists lead use-inspired research to zero in on specific topics, uncovering new knowledge that empowers communities.

Discover Our Centers

Washington State University Extension has established 18 subject matter centers to add capacity to traditional Extension offices and accelerate research throughout the university. The centers enable greater capacity and responsiveness to address community needs and emerging issues.

In addition to providing capacity and flexibility, these centers also act as conduits between local Extension offices and campus-based resources, including deploying both graduate and undergraduate students on real-world issues; engaging campus-based faculty in off campus, applied research opportunities; and generating additional resources for all parties through new funding sources.
Gaolach B. et al. (2017) Urban Extension: Aligning with the Needs of Urban Audiences Through Subject-Matter Centers. Journal of Human Sciences and Extension 5(2) 126-144.

AgWeather Net

AgWeatherNet (AWN) provides access to current and historical weather data from Washington State University’s automated network of nearly 400 solar-powered weather stations across Washington. The weather data, advisories, data products, and decision support systems provided by AWN and WSU can help improve production and product quality, optimize resource use, and reduce environmental impact.

Center for Precision & Automated Agricultural Systems

The mission of the Center for Precision & Automated Agricultural Systems (CPAAS) is to advance the science and practice of agricultural automation and precision farming in Washington State and beyond. CPAAS research addresses smart agriculture, precision farming, agricultural mechanization, and agricultural robotics.

Center for Sustaining Agriculture & Natural Resources

The Center for Sustaining Agriculture and Natural Resources (CSANR) leads efforts in sustainable agriculture, food, and natural resource systems that are economically viable, environmentally sound, and socially responsible.

Clean Plant Center Northwest

The Clean Plant Center Northwest is a collaborative effort of scientists, researchers, nurseries, and growers. We work together to increase the economic sustainability of specialty crop production in the United States. The program emphasizes the management of diseases caused by viruses and virus-like agents that affect vegetatively propagated perennial plants, including fruit trees, grapevines, and hop plants.

IMPACT Center

The IMPACT Center, located in SES, seeks to address economic, social, political, and technical problems that affect the competitiveness of Washington’s agriculture and related sectors.

Wine Science Center

WSU, in partnership with the Washington wine industry, developed a world-class wine research and education program that supports the growth of the state’s wine industry by providing viticulture and enology professionals the technical know-how to meet the needs of this vital economic segment.