Education
Doctor of Philosophy, University of California-Berkeley, 1991
Master of Science, University of Florida, 1986
Bachelor of Science, University of Florida, 1977
Research Focus
Dr. Delate’s research and extension program evaluates agroecological methods to improve organic farming systems in Iowa. Her research focuses on nutrient and pest management strategies that enhance production while lowering agriculture’s environmental footprint. Current projects include an examination of appropriate crop rotations, organic no-till, varietal response, and integrated crop-livestock systems to improve soil quality and economic returns.
Awards/Special Recognition
- Iowa State University College of Agriculture & Life Sciences Ag On-Line Teacher of the Year – 2017
- Outstanding Extension Bulletin Award (with Ajay Nair): ASHS, September 2017
- Organic Pioneer Award, Rodale Institute, September 9, 2017
- American Society of Agronomy (ASA) Organic Management Systems Community award for Outstanding Achievement in Organic Research – 2016
- Iowa State University Outstanding Achievement in Extension and Professional Practice Award: September – 2015
- Awarded Faculty Professional Development Assignment to study sustainable/organic ag in Italy: January to May 2014
- College of Agriculture & Life Sciences Outstanding Achievement in Extension & Outreach Award: January 2013
- American Society of Agronomy (ASA) award for Distinguished Service: October 2011
- American Society of Agronomy (ASA) appointment as Section Chair, Agronomic Production Systems: 2010-2011
- ASA Board of Directors appointment representing Organic Management Systems Division A-12 – 2009
- Elected as Vice-Chair of the ASA Integrated Agricultural Systems Division (Division A-8): 2008–2009; Chair: 2009–2011
- USDA-CSREES appointment to co-lead Multi-State Project on Organic Agriculture and Soil Quality: 2008
- Elected as Chair of the ASHS Organic Horticulture Working Group: 2006-2007
- Awarded Faculty Professional Development Assignment to study organic ag in New Zealand: January to June 2006
- Appointed as Panel Chair for the USDA-CSREES Integrated Organic Program, Washington, D.C. – 2005
- Iowa State University Individual Achievement in Extension Award – 2002
- Appointed to Steering Committee of Scientific Congress on Organic Agriculture Research (SCOAR), by the Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF) – 2000
- Gubernatorial appointment as Board Member of the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship Organic Advisory Committee, Des Moines, IA: 1997- present
Teaching Responsibilities
Horticulture 484/584 (Cross-listed with AGRON and SUSAG) –Organic Agriculture: Theory and Practice