Kearney Agricultural Research and Extension Center Logo

Kearney Agricultural Research and Extension Center

Rows of seedlings at Kearney Ag Research & Extension Center

Welcome 

Since its official dedication in 1965 Kearney Agricultural Research and Extension Center (KARE) has achieved international acclaim for leadership in the development of new fruit, nut, and grape varieties, innovative cultural and irrigation practices, pest and disease management techniques, and postharvest biology. In addition, KARE plays a leadership role in maintaining the quality of California's rural environment, with programs in air and water quality, and mosquito management. Please enjoy our website and give us feedback concerning the site.


Upcoming Events

Orchard Spray Nozzle Day

Friday, May 29, 2026 @ 8:00 AM- 12:00 PM
Kearney Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Parlier, CA
 

A half-day workshop featuring expert-led presentations and field demonstrations focused on nozzle selection, configuration, spray delivery optimization, and emerging technologies in automatic nozzle systems. Specific emphasis will be placed on a novel nozzle selection technology being developed at the Agricultural Application Engineering Lab at the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. This training will focus on axial and lateral sprays directed to tree and vine canopies.

Who Should Attend?

Anyone directly involved with orchard and vineyard spray operations, those who supervise applications, spray decision makers, orchard managers, growers/owners, and PCAs.
Registration?
This training is open to the public, but registration is required. 
Continuing Education Units?
3.5 CEUs ('Other') will be requested from the California Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR).
More Information?
Contact Instructor:
Dr. Peter Ako Larbi (palarbi@ucanr.edu), UC Cooperative Extension Specialist. 

Opportunities for Research and Extension at KARE

KARE’s research focuses on sustainable farming, pest management, specialty crops, water conservation, nitrogen management, and postharvest technology, supporting innovation in crops such as citrus, grapes, nuts, and stone fruits. The center provides long-term research support with expert staff, labs, conference facilities, and technical resources to advance agricultural research, extension, and education.

Learn more about KARE's research focus (PDF)
 

Grape Day at KARE Showcases Vineyard Innovations

Grape Day at KARE brought together growers and UC scientists to share the latest innovations and research in vineyard water, nutrient, pest, and disease management.

Read the full article about Grape Day at Kearney REC

 

 Matthew Fidelibus points out the Sunpreme raisin grape variety in a vineyard at Kearney REC

Nuts About Pistachios: Did you know?

Image
Greenhouse seedlings planted in rows at Kearney Research and Extension Center.
  • 50% of all pistachios in California are grown on rootstock taken from the Mother Pistachio tree at Kearney Agricultural Research and Extension Center
  • It took 20 years of research to grow the pest-resistant and high-producing Mother Pistachio tree
  • A 1-ounce serving of pistachios (about 60 nuts) contains thiamin, vitamin B6, copper, manganese, potassium, fiber, phosphorus and magnesium, yet is only 160 calories

Job Opportunities

If you are interested in working for UC ANR or Kearney Research and Extension Center, visit UC ANR's career website to see current job openings.


Stay Informed: Newsletters & Resources

California’s Research & Extension Centers (RECs)

Spanning the state’s mountains, valleys, deserts, and coasts, California’s RECs are living laboratories where scientists, educators, and partners tackle agricultural, environmental, and community challenges across diverse climates.

Learn more about our Research & Extension Centers

Contribute for a Better Future