Writer: Jenny Hays, (409) 862-1556
Contact: Dr. Marvin Harris, (979) 845-3411
COLLEGE STATION — Dr. Marvin K. Harris of College Station made history as the first entomologist to receive the Distinguished Technical Contribution Award from the Texas Pecan Growers Association.
Harris, a professor of entomology at Texas A&M University, received the award at the association’s 76th annual meeting in Austin.
Although pecans have been a major field of work for Harris, he did not think he would be eligible for the award. However, the association’s board members chose to recognize him for his exceptional pecan entomology research program he has spearheaded for 25 years with the Texas Agricultural Experiment Station.
“I am honored that the organization found my contributions worthy of note,” says Harris.
Harris and his team of entomologists have developed decision making tools that allow growers to make spray decisions with confidence, substantially reducing the insect threat while reducing the number of times pesticides had to be applied.
Harris received a bachelor’s degree in biology from Dana College in 1968 and went on to receive his doctorate in entomology from Cornell University in 1972.
He has received numerous awards recognizing his accomplishments. The Texas A&M University Chapter of American Registry of Professional Entomologists (ARPE) recognized him as the “Outstanding Entomologist” in 1985. The ARPE also recognized him as the “Outstanding Entomologist” in 1987, and in 1988 gave him the Outstanding Award in Pest Management.
Harris has served in a variety of public service roles, including serving as chairman of the continuing education committee in the ARPE in 1987. From 1985 to 1988, he served as chairman of the College of Agriculture Undergraduate Curriculum Committee as well as senator to the Texas A&M Faculty Senate from 1989 until 1992.
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