The University of Kentucky Wheat Science Group recently honored Kentucky producer Trevor Gilkey with their Service Award.

The group, comprised of scientists from the UK College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, created the award to recognize individuals for their collaborations and contributions to UK wheat research.

A native of and second-generation farmer in Princeton, Gilkey grew up with close connections to the scientists at UK’s Research and Education Center in the town.

“It didn’t matter which researcher I was talking to, if I had a question about something, they were always willing to stop what they were doing and find the answer for me,” said Gilkey, who in addition to wheat, produces corn, soybeans, tobacco and cattle.

He has worked with several members of the group over the years, providing equipment for field days, participating on grower panels, sharing information and participating in research. He most closely works with Ole Wendroth, UK soil physics professor in the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, on research related to variable rate nitrogen applications and most recently, on variable rate irrigation.

“For more than 12 years, Trevor Gilkey has been a great pioneer in supporting UK soil physics and agronomic field-scale research on his farm,” Wendroth said. “This unique collaboration has resulted in improved nitrogen and irrigation management for growers and scientific publications for international audiences.”

Collaborations between growers and university researchers are important to ensuring that UK research and recommendations are cutting-edge and practical for Kentucky producers.

“Farmers, like Trevor, are invaluable to the research that we do and to all the farmers in Kentucky that are impacted by our research,” said Chad Lee, director of the UK Grain and Forage Center of Excellence.