Shad D. Nelson

Dr. Shad D. Nelson serves as Professor and Dean of the Dick and Mary Lewis Kleberg College of Agriculture and Natural Resources at Texas A&M University-Kingsville, holding the C.F. Dick Schendel Endowed Professorship in Soil Science within the Department of Agriculture, Agribusiness and Environmental Sciences.

His academic credentials include:

• Ph.D. in Soil Chemistry/Physics from the University of California, Riverside
• M.S. in Agronomy from Brigham Young University
• B.S. in Horticultural Science from Brigham Young University

Dr. Nelson's research program, based at the Texas A&M University-Kingsville Citrus Center in Weslaco, focuses on advancing sustainable agricultural practices through soil and water conservation in horticultural systems. His work specifically targets water-efficient irrigation methodologies for citrus growers, environmental fate of agricultural chemicals, and farm-level management strategies that enhance long-term sustainability. As a third-generation soil scientist, he brings multi-generational expertise to preserving agricultural resources.

Prior to his 2001 appointment at Texas A&M University-Kingsville, Dr. Nelson contributed to agricultural research at the USDA Agricultural Research Service in Florida and California. His leadership as Dean integrates academic administration with active research engagement to advance the college's mission in agricultural education and innovation.