Live-animal mascot program directors and handlers, including the team that cares for the Tennessee Volunteers’ beloved Smokey, discussed management, training, workload and welfare practices during a symposium hosted by the College of Veterinary Medicine in partnership with the American Humane Society. Attendees represented more than 30 universities, athletic programs, zoological institutions and professional sports organizations. Participants discussed strategies to mitigate common mascot stressors, such as loud and unexpected noises, crowds and heat, with the goal of promoting positive experiences for both the animals and fans. Symposium outcomes will culminate in the first peer-reviewed publication to define the current landscape of live-animal mascot programs and provide best-practice guidance for animal welfare.
Young Leaders Visit Knoxville
The Herbert College of Agriculture and Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation hosted more than 90 high school students at the Tennessee Leadership Summit in June. Students participated in leadership workshops, field lab experiences, team-building activities and professional development sessions led by UT faculty and agricultural industry leaders. Herbert also will host the summit in 2027 and 2028.
Search for Real. Life. Solutions.
Where can research-based information on farming, gardening, money management and pet care be found for free? Solutions.tennessee.edu presents UT Extension, UT AgResearch and UT College of Veterinary Medicine publications and factsheets written by faculty and specialists on a modern digital platform. Search by keyword, and the website curates related content based on searches and trending topics. The website helps the UT Institute of Agriculture carry out the land-grant mission by providing Real. Life. Solutions. to Tennesseans.
A Rose is a Rose
The UT Plateau AgResearch and Education Center in Crossville has a long history of rose disease and pest research. Now it is one of 12 U.S. locations chosen for the American Gardens Rose Selections. This organization conducts trials and evaluates new kinds of roses before they go to market. There are 19 rose varieties growing in the UT Gardens, Crossville, which is part of the center. The roses will be evaluated for two years, and a list of winners will carry the American Gardens Rose Selections distinction when they are sold in nurseries and garden stores. The Gardens are free and open to the public.
