DAVIE, Fla. – The University of Florida’s Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center (UF/IFAS FLREC) has a new director.
Jack Rechcigl was appointed the FLREC director effective July 8.
“I am excited to be the new director and look forward to working with the amazing faculty and staff and continue to make this a world-renown research center focusing on urban issues” said Rechcigl. “I hope to inspire new ideas, partnerships with industry and stakeholders and collaboration among our UF/IFAS faculty and units.
Areas of research at FLREC include sustainable management for tropical and subtropical landscape systems. Scientists also aim to reduce the impact invasive animals and plants have on natural and highly urbanized habitats. Others include environmental horticulture, aquatic plant management and turfgrass science in South Florida.
“What distinguishes Dr. Rechcigl as a scientific leader is how hard he works to determine what science is most relevant to the people he serves.” said Scott Angle, UF vice president of agriculture and natural resources. “He sees community members as partners. I expect he will increase opportunities for stakeholders to contribute to a vision for FLREC’s future.”