RESEARCH

Scientists at land-grant universities are protecting our nation’s farms and food supply as they tackle some of the nation’s most pressing agricultural challenges. For example, they develop resilient crops, improve livestock health, strengthen food safety, and protect water resources. Their innovations and use of advanced technologies help farmers and ranchers stay productive and keep our food supply secure and resilient.

EDUCATION

At this time when our nation needs more skilled professionals in the food, agriculture, renewable natural resources, and environmental sectors (see below), education remains a core land-grant mission. By equipping students with critical thinking and technical skills as well as hands-on experience, land-grant educators prepare the next generation of farmers, ranchers, veterinarians, scientists, Extension professionals, and community leaders. They ensure that the nation will have a skilled workforce to address future challenges and keep America moving forward.

New USDA Study Projects Strong Job Opportunities in Food, Agriculture, Renewable Natural Resources, and Environmental Sectors

A new United States Department of Agriculture-funded study undertaken by Purdue University projects that employment opportunities will remain strong for new college graduates with interest and expertise in the food, agriculture, renewable natural resources, and environmental sectors (FARNRE). The report forecasts an average of over 104,00 FARNRE job openings annually between 2025 – 2030 for individuals with college degrees. USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture supported the research.

Public agricultural schools exist in every U.S. state, territory, and the District of Columbia, forming a robust network through the Land-grant University system that collectively offers unparalleled educational opportunities. The system was established by landmark legislation in 1862, 1890, and 1994 and includes state flagship institutions, Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and tribal colleges. Land-grant universities are uniquely positioned and prepared to collaborate closely with USDA NIFA to attract, educate, and graduate the skilled professionals needed to meet the demands of tomorrow’s workforce, ensuring the U.S. remains a global leader in agricultural innovation and sustainability.

COOPERATIVE EXTENSION

Extension educators translate and disseminate university-generated research so that people and communities can rapidly apply practical tools and vital knowledge.  Through its local presence and direct engagement with farmers, ranchers, foresters, and small business owners, they provide practical guidance to help effectively manage local and regional challenges.  Serving every one of the country’s over 3,000 counties and parishes, Extension benefits people throughout the entire country.

Each land-grant university has its own powerful stories of people making a difference—researchers advancing discoveries that address real-world challenges, educators preparing students for productive careers, and Extension professionals working side by side with farmers, families, and communities to solve their local problems. Together, these efforts form a national network that translates knowledge and innovation into action and impact. Collectively, land-grant universities are accelerating discoveries and delivering solutions to create a more resilient, prosperous, sustainable, and secure future for all. 

MONTHS

National Soup Month, #NationalSoupMonth

WEEKS

January 20-23: International Hoof Care Week, #InternationalHoofCareWeek
January 25 - February 1: National Meat Week, #MeatWeek

DAYS

January 5: National Bird Day, #NationalBirdDay 
January 6: National Bean Day, #NationalBeanDay 
January 9: National Apricot Day, #NationalApricotDay 
January 11: National Milk Day, #NationalMilkDay 
January 19: Martin Luther King Jr Day, #MLKDay 
January 23: National Pie Day, #NationalPieDay 
January 24: National Peanut Butter Day, #PeanutButterDay

^{Source: JANUARY - National Day Calendar}