NEWS

D. Scott NeSmith

Inventor’s Award 2013

D. Scott NeSmith

D. Scott NeSmith, professor of horticulture, has been an extraordinarily productive researcher and inventor of new plant varieties since joining UGA’s Griffin Campus in 1990. NeSmith’s research focuses particularly on the study of blueberries, and he has released and patented 10 new commercial blueberry varieties and two ornamental blueberry varieties since becoming head of the UGA Blueberry Breeding Program in 1998. Using the latest scientific techniques, NeSmith is able to develop blueberries suited to different climates and growing conditions. His sought-after expertise has led to collaborations with farmers and researchers throughout the world including South Africa, Japan, New Zealand and much of Europe. Due in part to his efforts, the blueberry has become Georgia number one fruit crop, even surpassing the famous Georgia peach. Blueberries like the ones NeSmith develops earned Georgia farmers about $134 million, according to the 2010 Georgia Farm Gate Value Report, and their popularity with professional farmers and the casual gardener continues to grow thanks to NeSmith’s tireless work.