Glenn W. Burton
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Family: Joe Burton (son)
Glenn W. Burton | |
---|---|
Born | (1910-05-05)May 5, 1910 Clatonia, Gage County, Nebraska |
Died | November 22, 2005(2005-11-22) (aged 95) |
Alma mater | University of Nebraska-Lincoln Rutgers University |
Awards | President's Award for Distinguished Federal Civilian Service (1981) |
Scientific career | |
Fields | Agricultural scientist |
Glenn W. Burton (May 5, 1910 near Clatonia, Gage County, Nebraska – November 22, 2005 Tifton, Georgia) was an American agricultural scientist[1][2] notable for his pioneering work in plant breeding, development of pearl millet in 1956 and for other contributions that helped increase world food production.[3]
Burton was also known for the development of bermuda grasses used on athletic fields.[3] Of these, his Tifton 419 was the most widely used bermuda grass in the world as of 2006.[3][4]
Burton received the National Medal of Science from President Ronald Reagan: "For outstanding contributions to the biological sciences that have helped to feed the hungry, protect and beautify the environment, and provide recreation for millions."[5]
Burton was a member of the National Academy of Sciences and chair of the Agronomic Science Foundation.[1]