Major Focus
Scientists at the El Paso Research Center are developing technologies and methods to improve water-use efficiency, increase water supplies and protect water quality. The Center is internationally recognized for its research in waterborne pathogen detection, salinity management, reclaimed water use, crop and landscape plants, desalination concentrate, ground-surface water management, and evaluation of the economic impacts of technology and policy changes.
Mission
The mission of the El Paso Center is to lead and conduct innovative water, natural resources and environmental research to serve the needs of Far West Texas and the state. This region is unique in climate - Chihuahuan Desert, limited water resources, demographics and complex institutional jurisdictions. Among the most important needs for agricultural and urban residents in this region are reliable, adequate and safe water supplies. A border population of more than 2 million, rapid growth, competition for existing water, environmental issues and frequent drought underscore the urgency for finding and implementing effective solutions. Research programs at the El Paso Center strive to address these needs. Click here for examples of Center research contributions.
Research Programs
Scientists at the El Paso Center are leading research in:
- Waterborne pathogen detection and control
- Water and soil salinity management
- Hydrogeology and district delivery efficiency
- Water value, pricing and irrigation efficiency
- Reclaimed water use and bioremediation
- Agricultural economics and water policy
- Urban landscape water conservation
These programs are being conducted in partnership and with the support of local, state and federal agencies, stakeholders, other universities, and public and private organizations.
Facilities
The El Paso Research Center was established in 1942 and expanded in 1976. Research offices and laboratories are at two locations, in El Paso at I-10 and Loop 375 on a 44 acre site and in Socorro on a 190 acre site. Facilities include 11 buildings with 65,000 square feet of space including laboratories with extensive analytic equipment, 200 seat auditorium, classroom, offices, video conference room and five greenhouses.
Since 1887, Texas AgriLife Research has been an integral part of the Texas A&M University System. AgriLife Research is the state’s only agency dedicated to research and technology development in food, agriculture and natural resources. There are 13 Centers serving the specific research needs of each region for rural and urban citizens across the state.
Center Director
Dr. Ari M. Michelsen
Texas AgriLife Research Center at El Paso
1380 A&M Circle
El Paso, TX 79927
Phone: (915) 859-9111
Fax: (915) 859-1078
E-mail: a-michelsen at tamu.edu