Noble Research Institute professor named 2017 CSSA Fellow

Twain Butler

Butler will be formally presented with the award at the Crop Science Society of America annual meeting in October. The annual awards are presented for outstanding contributions to agronomy through education, national and international service, and research.

“On behalf of the Noble Research Institute, we congratulate Dr. Butler on being named a CSSA Fellow. This is a tremendous accomplishment,” said Michael Udvardi, Ph.D., Noble Research Institute chief scientific officer. “Dr. Butler continues to distinguish himself as one of the top researchers in agricultural science. Amongst other things, he has demonstrated leadership in applying sensor technology to forage research.”

Butler’s research is focused on tall fescue, alfalfa, wheat and bermudagrass grazing systems to determine the optimal forages for the Southern Great Plains. As new technologies and cultivars are developed, livestock producers need to know the best management practices and economic considerations prior to making decisions to adopt these new practices on their operations.

Butler is also the project manager for a national cover crop research initiative launched by the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research (FFAR) and the Noble Research Institute in March 2017. The $6.6 million initiative will promote soil health through the development and adoption of new cover crops across the United States.

“I am honored that my research has been recognized by the CSSA and my peers. This is a career milestone and one that I truly appreciate,” Butler said. ”I look forward to applying the results of our agronomy research to agricultural problems in our region and around the world.”

Butler has authored or co-authored 66 refereed journal articles, 72 abstracts, 16 reviewed proceeding papers, eight extension publications, one grower guide, three book chapters and one patent application. He has served as an associate editor for Agronomy Journaland Crop Science. In addition to his involvement in the Crop Science Society of America, Butler is active in the American Society of Agronomy. He has received numerous invitations to present research at national and international conferences.

Members of the Crop Science Society of America nominate worthy colleagues based on their professional achievements and meritorious service. Up to 0.3 percent of the Society’s active and emeritus members may be elected Fellow.