Arkansas Valley Research Center
The Arkansas Valley is a historically important agricultural region in Colorado, and our work as a research facility is some of the longest running in our state. The AVRC opened in 1888 and has served as a resource for irrigated agricultural research ever since. The center covers the resources of southeast Colorado from Pueblo County to the Kansas border and tributaries to the Arkansas River in El Paso, Huerfano and Las Animas counties.
Research and Engagement
The AVRC conducts multidisciplinary research targeting solutions for regionally important problems. Our scientists’ work has been instrumental in adapting crops and varieties to the soil and climate specific to our region. We are active participants, optimizing superior plant varieties for our local growers and collaborating to improve cultural practices and guidelines for pest management, soil and water stewardship.
Learn About the Research Climate
Elevation (ft)
4178
Miles from CSU
230
Avg. Precipitation
12″
Avg. Frost-Free Days
158
Principal Soil Type
Rocky Ford Clay Loam
Facilty Acres
127
Contact Information
Arkansas Valley Research Center
27901 Road 21
Rocky Ford, CO 81067
Phone: (719) 254-6312
Fax: (719) 254-6312