Ken Mix

Dr. Ken Mix is an Associate Professor of Soil & Crop Science at Texas State University's Department of Agricultural Sciences (College of Science and Engineering). He previously operated a commercial vegetable farm in Indiana and now focuses on teaching and research in entomology, soil health, regenerative agriculture, and climate-water resources. He leads the Small Producers Initiative, a USDA-funded program supporting small farmers and ranchers through education, mentorship, and technical resources. His projects include intercropping systems, soil health studies, and climate adaptation strategies in Central Texas.

Education: Ph.D. in Aquatic Resources (Texas State University, 2010), M.S. in Range & Wildlife Management (TAMU-Kingsville, 2004), B.S. in Natural Resources (Ball State University, 1999). He teaches undergraduate courses in soil science, crop production, and entomology.

Research emphasizes soil health, botanical insecticides, and small producer resilience. He manages USDA-funded projects like SPI-AMP (agricultural mentoring) and RReSSEED (regenerative soil solutions). His work addresses challenges faced by small-scale producers through interdisciplinary approaches.

Dr. Mix has advised numerous graduate students on topics like silicon's role in drought tolerance, botanical pest control, and small producer needs assessments. The Small Producers Initiative hosts the Southern Family Farmers Conference, attracting 500+ attendees annually. His grants total over $X million (specific figures not stated in text).