Dr. Jim Pease conducts extension and applied research programs focused on the profitability of agricultural businesses, the efficiency and impacts of water quality protection policies, and economic development in rural areas of Virginia. Current projects include development of watershed planning tools, analysis of bioenergy industry development, and water quality education. A Professor in Agricultural Economics at Virginia Tech, Dr. Pease also serves on the executive board of STAC and is a member of the USDA Mid-Atlantic Water Program. He has received awards for his programs from the Soil and Water Conservation Society, USDA Farm Services Agency, Virginia Cooperative Extension Agents' Association, Southern Extension Forester Resource Specialists Organization, and the Southern Agricultural Economics Association.