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Gregory K. Evanylo

Professor Emeritus
Dr. Greg Evanylo
426 Smyth Hall
185 Ag Quad Lane
Blacksburg, VA 24061

Overview

My research addresses the chemistry and fate of carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and heavy metals from land-applied municipal, industrial, and agricultural byproducts on plant, soil, water, and air quality, and crop stress amelioration. My extension programming provides knowledge on the risks and benefits associated with the application of such residuals to natural and anthropogenic soils.

Expertise 

  • Soil fertility and chemistry

Education

  • Ph.D. Agronomy, University of Georgia, 1982
  • M.S. Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Massachusetts, 1978
  • B.A. Biology, University of Connecticut, 1975

The goal of my research program is to investigate the chemistry, transport, and availability of nutrients (esp., nitrogen), inorganic trace elements, and organic matter (esp., carbon) in land-applied by-products derived from agricultural, industrial, and municipal processes. My colleagues and I research the effects of such by-products on plant health, soil properties, greenhouse gas generation, and water quality in both natural and anthropogenic soils.

Professor and Extension Specialist | 2018-2022
School of Plant and Environmental Sciences
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Va.

Professor and Extension Specialist | 2001-2018
Department of Crop and Soil Environmental Sciences
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Va.

Associate Professor and Extension Specialist | 1992 - 2001
Department of Crop and Soil Environmental Sciences
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Va. 

Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist | 1989 - 1992  
Department of Crop and Soil Environmental Sciences
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Va. 

Assistant Professor of Agronomy | 1984 - 1989
Eastern Shore Agricultural Experiment Station
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Painter, Va.

The areas that I address in my extension program are closely aligned with my research areas, i.e. beneficial recycling of agricultural, municipal and industrial by-products for the enhancement of soil, water and air quality; agricultural and urban nutrient management; and composting and compost use. My extension programming has provided knowledge on the risks and benefits associated with land application of municipal, industrial, and agricultural residuals. The purpose of these activities is to change practices that will reduce the impairment of our environment and improve human health.

  • Excellence in Applied Research, Virginia Tech College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, 2018.
  • Certificate of Recognition for 20 years of contributions made to improve wastewater treatment plant operations, Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, 2018.
  • Fellow, American Society of Agronomy, 2014.
  • Fellow, Soil Science Society of America, 2014.
  • Rufus Chaney Award for Research Excellence, U.S. Composting Council, 2010.
  • Virginia Tech Alumni Award for Excellence in Extension, Virginia Cooperative Extension, 2004.