Dr. Craig Sheaffer has been on the faculty in the Department of Agronomy and Plant Genetics since 1977.  Dr. Sheaffer’s research has focused on forage production and has led to the authorship of around 275 scientific publications and scores of book chapters and extension publications.  He has worked on pasture management and has focused on many species of forage crops.  But his love is alfalfa.  Craig sat down with David Nicoali and Seth Naeve to talk about his history at the University of Minnesota and his many collaborators, colleagues, and friends at The U.  Craig discussed changes that he has seen in agriculture in Minnesota and talked about alfalfa varieties and the testing program over the years.

This is part one of a two-part series that touches on some of the highlights of Dr. Sheaffer’s illustrious career.  Part 1 emphasizes his research efforts while Part 2 will highlight his teaching career at the University of Minnesota.