MISSISSIPPI STATE – Mississippi State University’s Extension Service has selected Trent Irby as the new soybean specialist to assist the state’s soybean growers.

Irby, a Mississippi native, has research and practical experience that make him uniquely suited to help support the state’s nearly $1 billion per year soybean industry, said Gary Jackson, director of MSU’s Extension Service.

“Trent was raised on a family-owned and -operated row-crop farm, where he gained production experience with soybeans, cotton, corn and wheat,” said Darrin Dodds, cotton specialist and assistant Extension professor in the department of plant and soil sciences. “During his time in graduate school, he conducted research on crop tolerance and weed control. He has a strong passion for agriculture.”

Dodds said Irby will be responsible for educational programs for growers, Extension agents, dealers, distributors and consultants. He will be the primary contact for all soybean production information.

“Mississippi State University Extension Service is committed to providing timely, researched-based information to our clients,” Jackson said. “As the Extension soybean specialist, Trent’s insights into the use of technology will keep Mississippi producers up-to-date with cutting-edge information. It is important that we support the industry with a highly educated and dedicated individual such as Trent.”

Irby received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at MSU in 2005 and 2009 and is finishing his doctorate. He served as a student representative to the Mississippi Weed Society and the Southern Weed Science Society. His family's farm, Irby Farms LLC, is located near Brandon.

Irby begins work as the state soybean specialist in Jan. 2012.