Bridging the Gap: Why I Write Outreach Articles for Agriculture

As a scientist, engineer, and former academic, trained in the rigorous world of peer-reviewed research, I've found a passion for writing outreach articles. These short, accessible pieces on my blog serve as a vital bridge, connecting complex scientific concepts with a diverse audience, particularly within the agricultural community.

My journey began with a realization: peer-reviewed articles, though essential, often remain confined to a narrow audience. The years of research, writing, and peer review that go into them frequently result in knowledge that doesn't reach the very people who could benefit most – the producers and growers.

I value the diverse expertise within agriculture and believe that scientific knowledge should be accessible to everyone, not just fellow researchers. This gap between research and practical application is what drives me to create outreach blog articles.

However, I've noticed some readers approach these articles as if they were highly technical manuscripts, expecting the depth and detail of peer-reviewed work. This is a common misunderstanding. Outreach articles are intentionally designed to be concise and jargon-free, reaching a broader readership. Diving into highly specific research details would defeat their purpose, excluding the very people I aim to engage.

Key characteristics of effective outreach articles:

• Accessibility: They use clear, simple language, avoiding technical jargon.

• Conciseness: They are short and to the point, making them easy to digest.

• Inclusivity: If an outreach article is difficult to understand, it fails to fulfill its purpose.

Another crucial point, especially for agricultural outreach, is the cautious approach to recommending new methods or tools. Even if I'm confident in a new development, I refrain from directly encouraging its immediate adoption.

As a scientist, I’m eager to share my findings, but the methods I recommend to growers are grounded in established research, thoroughly vetted and tested.

Ultimately, my goal is to create short, simple, and informative articles that empower readers with valuable knowledge. If you've enjoyed one of my articles, I encourage you to explore others on my blog to gain a comprehensive understanding of the topics I cover.