Benjamin D. Ballard

Benjamin D. Ballard is a Professor of Renewable Energy at SUNY Morrisville, serving as Director of the Renewable Energy Training Center (RETC) since 2008. He is affiliated with the Division of Environmental & Renewable Resources within the School of Agriculture, Business & Technology. His expertise spans bioenergy crops, thermal energy systems, and vegetation management.

Education:

• Bachelor of Science in Forest Resources Management, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF)
• Master of Science in Forest Resources Management, SUNY ESF
• Master of Science in Statistics, Syracuse University
• Doctorate in Forest Ecosystem Science and Applications, SUNY ESF

Research Focus: Dr. Ballard specializes in shrub willow bioenergy crops, vegetation management on powerline corridors, and shrub community dynamics. His work emphasizes sustainable biomass production and renewable energy technologies such as biomass heating, solar thermal systems, and heat pumps. He has authored two books on shrub identification, further solidifying his contributions to applied ecological research.

Teaching & Leadership: He teaches courses on bioenergy, thermal energy systems, and tower climbing safety. His role as RETC Director underscores his leadership in advancing renewable energy education and training programs at SUNY Morrisville.