News Room
FVSU and Bridgestone Forge New Partnership to Advance Rubber Plant Research and Strengthen Rural Prosperity in Peach County
Posted on Feb 12, 2026 at 17:47 PM
Fort Valley State University has expanded its leadership in agricultural innovation with the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the university and Bridgestone, a global leader in tire and rubber production. This strategic partnership formalizes a collaborative effort to advance rubber plant research at FVSU: an emerging field with the potential to transform agricultural practices, diversify crop production, and stimulate economic growth across Middle Georgia.
As Georgia’s only 1890 land‑grant institution, FVSU continues to build partnerships that align academic excellence with community impact. The agreement with Bridgestone reflects a shared commitment to sustainability, innovation, and workforce development, positioning the university as a key contributor to the future of renewable materials and environmentally responsible agriculture.
"FVSU’s College of Agriculture, Family Sciences and Technology (CAFST) is pleased to partner with Bridgestone Research LLC, a global leader in the manufacturing of rubber-based products,” said FVSU Vice President of Land Grant Affairs Keith Howard, Ph.D. “This collaborative agreement strongly aligns with our land-grant mission, where education and agricultural research intersect with industry to develop and enhance products that deliver meaningful value to communities. We are especially excited about the opportunities this partnership will create for our students through experiential learning, research engagement and workforce development.”
Under the MOU, FVSU researchers and Bridgestone scientists will work together to study alternative rubber‑producing plants, evaluate their adaptability to Georgia’s climate, and explore cultivation methods that support long‑term environmental and economic sustainability. This collaboration strengthens FVSU’s research capacity while creating new opportunities for students to engage in hands‑on, industry‑aligned scientific inquiry.
“Bridgestone is pleased to announce our collaboration with the College of Agriculture, Family Sciences and Technology at Fort Valley State University. FVSU has outstanding research and lab capabilities, motivated students, and strong connections to the area’s agricultural community that offer significant opportunities for collaboration,” said Bridgestone Senior Manager Del Craig. “Our Bridgestone Ag Operations Team is excited to work with FVSU students and faculty to run a multi-year varietal trial on a sandy loam portion of the FVSU Research Farm to test the feasibility to grow guayule in this area of the US. Our joint laboratory work will also help deepen our understanding of guayule’s biology and reproductive processes to enhance breeding efforts.”
For students, the partnership opens the door to meaningful experiential learning. Participants will gain direct exposure to cutting‑edge plant science research, from field trials and laboratory analysis to data collection and sustainability assessments. The collaboration also expands access to mentorship, internships, and career pathways within agricultural biotechnology, environmental science, and global industry sectors. By working alongside professionals from Bridgestone, students will develop the technical skills, research competencies, and professional networks needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving agricultural landscape.
The impact of this partnership extends well beyond the university’s campus. For Peach County and the surrounding rural region, rubber plant research represents a promising avenue for agricultural diversification. Local growers could benefit from the introduction of new specialty crops that complement existing production and provide alternative revenue streams. As research progresses, the need for field technicians, research assistants and agricultural specialists may create new job opportunities for residents, supporting workforce development in a region where agriculture remains central to economic stability.
Additionally, the partnership strengthens FVSU’s ability to deliver community‑centered outreach through its Cooperative Extension programs. As findings emerge, FVSU will be positioned to share best practices with local farmers, helping them evaluate the feasibility of rubber‑producing crops and adopt innovative strategies that enhance farm resilience. This knowledge transfer reinforces the university’s land‑grant mission—using research and education to uplift rural communities and support long‑term economic vitality.
The MOU between FVSU and Bridgestone represents a forward‑looking investment in sustainability, student success and rural prosperity. By combining academic expertise with industry innovation, the partnership positions Peach County as a hub for agricultural advancement and strengthens FVSU’s role as a catalyst for regional growth. As the collaboration unfolds, students, farmers, and community members will benefit from the opportunities and insights generated through this work, ensuring that Middle Georgia remains at the forefront of agricultural discovery and economic development.
- Categories:
- News
- Home
- Home Featured