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Real World Research Expertise

Real World Research Expertise

Wireless tower overlooking the city of Blacksburg, VA.

Every day regional, national, and global media are tapping into Virginia Tech expertise to help make sense of the world.

By sharing their insights, Virginia Tech researchers are helping you better understand today and how to prepare for tomorrow.

Research Expertise

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    An image of dry, yellowed grass juxtaposed over an image of a sprinkler watering a healthy lawn. Photos courtesy Pexels.
    Turfgrass expert offers tips to keep a lawn healthy during drought , article

    Homeowners watching their grass turn yellow as drought drags on face a lot of potentially fateful decisions regarding the health of their lawns. Virginia Tech turfgrass expert Dan Sandor offers guidance as he answered questions about what to do and not to do for thirsty yards.

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    Family on the beach
    Expert shares advice for reducing family vacation drama , article

    Vacationing with multiple family members or friends of different ages and interests for extended periods of time can create tension. Paul Springer says communication before the vacation is key to reducing challenges.

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    Number "2026" with a soccer ball for the zero; designs of the U.S., Canada, and Mexico flags on the numbers.
    2026 World Cup sparks safety and accessibility concerns, expert says , article

    Co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, the 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to become the largest in tournament history. While the tournament represents a major moment for the sport, Virginia Tech expert Patrick Ridge said attention surrounding this year’s event extends beyond the competition itself, with several factors prompting questions about fan and player safety and accessibility.

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    A soccer ball covered in international flags nestles in the netting of a goal. Bright green grass fills the background, out of focus. The ball is close up and brightly lit.
    Expert explains impact of technology on World Cup tourism , article

    As the 2026 World Cup approaches, Virginia Tech hospitality and tourism expert Juan Luis Nicolau explains how technology will be used to better experiences for guests and host cities.

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    Water can putting water on plants
    Expert tips for gardening during drought , article

    As spring progresses and summer approaches, now is the time for working in the garden. However, with more than 60 percent of the United States dealing with drought, maintaining a thriving landscape has become increasingly difficult. Ed Olsen, a consumer horticulture specialist and director of the Virginia Cooperative Extension Master Gardener Program, shares essential strategies for gardening in dry conditions and the common mistakes to avoid.

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    Image of United States showing severity of drought conditions
    Expert: More than half of U.S. faces worst drought in decades , article

    More than 60 percent of the United States is experiencing drought conditions, with more than 20 percent in an extreme drought. Andrew Ellis, a climatologist at Virginia Tech said the current conditions are among the worst in decades because the combination of intensity and aerial coverage is rare. He explained why, who is most impacted, and when we can expect relief.

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