Arkansas State University has been awarded $249,000 by the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) to research roadside vegetation management.
The study will examine the impact of various seeding practices on plant diversity and pollinator populations along state roadways, according to ARDOT. Researchers at A-State plan to analyze construction data and conduct field surveys to help improve roadside vegetation protocols, identify resilient native plant species, and enhance the sustainability of highway landscapes.
The funding is part of ARDOT’s 2027 Transportation-Related Research and Workforce Development Program. A-State is one of two universities selected for this year’s initiative.
Additionally, the University of Arkansas will receive $211,000 to focus on pavement preservation through specialized training aimed at extending the lifespan of state roadways.
Both projects are intended to advance ARDOT’s mission of improving transportation infrastructure while promoting environmental stewardship and workforce development across Arkansas.