Current Challenges
Last year, the lab operated under limited capacity due to COVID restrictions. These constraints combined with staffing and equipment issues resulting in a significant backlog and some gaps in customer service. We are not currently meeting our clients’ expectations in terms of turnaround time and data interpretation. I offer my deepest apologies to those clients affected by this. We are working as quickly as possible to hire new staff, purchase new equipment, and implement new systems to address these deficiencies. But, you should expect longer turnaround times for the next few months, and we will ask you to contact Extension for data interpretation and recommendations.
Today I am excited to introduce our new laboratory director, Dr. Ana Cristina Fulladolsa. Dr. Fulladolsa brings 10 years of experience in testing large sets of agricultural samples. She is the director of the CSU Plant Diagnostic Clinic where she has implemented changes to improve operation efficiency, client communication, methods, and training. Dr. Fulladolsa is broadly trained in agricultural production systems and has a specialty in plant disease diagnostics and management. She has worked closely with growers, crop consultants, government agencies, and researchers throughout her career. Dr. Fulladolsa has greatly contributed to our vision of the new service lab program at SPUR and is collaborating with multiple groups on campus, local partners, and national networks to move the program in that direction. As the SPUR lab develops, Dr. Fulladolsa will gather an agricultural advisory board to provide direction to the lab and make sure that it serves clients throughout Colorado and she will provide routine updates through college communications on lab improvements.
We ask for your patience and partnership through this transition period and we look forward to welcoming you to our new state-of-the-art facility next year.
Our Commitment
CSU is fully committed to a world-class testing facility with outstanding customer service oriented around serving your needs. Together, we will elevate and transform our ability to foster soil and crop health in Colorado and beyond.
Please feel free to email me with any questions or comments. Dr. Fulladolsa and I will keep you posted on our progress in the coming months.
Best Regards,
Matthew Wallenstein, PhD
Department Head and Professor
Soil and Crop Sciences Department
