The College of Agricultural Sciences at Oregon State University named Dr. Stuart Reitz as the interim director for the Mid-Columbia Agricultural Research and Extension Center (MCAREC). He is taking on this responsibility in addition to his duties as director of the Malheur Experiment Station which he has led since 2018.
Reitz is a professor in the Crop and Soil Sciences department and is well-regarded in the region for his expertise in crop production and integrated pest management critical to growers across the Treasure Valley of southwest Idaho and southeast Oregon. Stepping into the role formerly held by Dr. Steve Castagnoli, Reitz will apply his scientific expertise and leadership skills to a region faced with variety of production and management challenges specific to the tree fruit industry.
“We are thrilled that Dr. Reitz has agreed to step in as the interim director while we launch a search for a permanent director,” said Alan Sams, Dean of the College of Agricultural Sciences and Director of the Agriculture Experiment Station. “His knowledge of the issues facing our branch experiment stations and his proven ability to collaborate effectively with growers will ensure continuity of service during our search for a permanent director.”
A search for a permanent director is expected to start in mid-2022 and will include input from the community and regional stakeholders.