---

With our land-grant mission and statewide educational and Extension sites, Utah State University truly serves all of Utah. During my first year in this role, it has been incredible to see the Aggie impact through the entire state.

From research to recreation, this issue of Utah State Magazine focuses on that impact, highlighting new teaching methods, the importance of honoring tradition, and statewide Aggie conservation efforts.

Those efforts include work to preserve the Great Salt Lake by eradicating invasive, water-stealing weeds, led by Scott and Mindy Pratt, graduates of the S.J. and Jesse E. Quinney College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Other stories explore the importance of rangelands in the state, as well as the impacts of burn scars on the environment — something especially important after one of the worst wildfire years in Utah’s history.

Even with an important focus on these critical environmental issues, the beauty of Utah still takes my breath away. One of my favorite features in this issue shares feedback from students throughout the state about some of their most beloved outdoor recreation spots. Many of them are now on my list for future exploring.

Beyond our state’s borders, Aggies are making an impact as well. College of Engineering graduate Dustin Mortensen is literally changing the map in Texas, where the dam project he led has begun filling, creating a lake that will last far into the future.

Stories like these are a reminder of the breadth of Utah State and the many ways Aggies are putting their education to work. Whether through research, teaching, service, conservation, or simply finding new ways to strengthen the communities where they live, our students and alumni continue to carry the Aggie spirit far beyond our campuses.

That statewide reach is central to who we are as Utah’s land-grant university. Our responsibility is not simply to educate students, but to use our knowledge and expertise to help address the challenges and opportunities facing the communities we serve.

I hope you enjoy this issue and the stories of Aggies who are making a difference across Utah and beyond. Thank you for being part of the Utah State community and for helping carry our mission forward.

Sincerely,

President Brad L. Mortensen