New farmers just starting out and established farmers looking to expand markets have something in common: looking to the Land-grant University System to support their growth. Strong local farms strengthen local food systems and food security.
Reaching diverse farms and farmers
Extension educators and researchers across the Land-grant University System reach diverse farmers and farms through programming, information and accessible tools. Their work ensures farming resources are available to all individuals.
Research, education improve livestock health
Livestock producers are continually searching for the best management strategies to protect animal health, which is essential to productivity and profitability as well as the animal’s well-being. Maintaining healthy animals also protects human health.
1890 Extension Transforming Lives
From the 2023 1890 Extension Transforming Lives Report: The dynamic work of Cooperative Extension at the 1890 Land-grant Universities is changing lives and connecting people to vital information. Extension professionals have the unique responsibility of translating federal and state dollars into educational outreach that advances the well-being of their states’ diverse audiences, particularly those with limited social and economic resources. …
Honoring a Legacy in Agriculture: The Dr. Mort Neufville Scholarship/Fellowship Fund
After an illustrious 53-year journey in the realms of agricultural science and higher education leadership, Dr. Mortimer H. Neufville, affectionately known as Mort, has retired as of December 2023. His career, marked by a deep commitment to the land-grant universities mission of research, extension, and education, culminates in his role as the inaugural President & CEO of the 1890 Universities …
1890 Historically Black land-grants bridge the gap to empower communities
Within the national Land-Grant University System, 19 Historically Black Colleges and Universities are bridging the gap between information and lack of resources to enhance underserved communities through research and Cooperative Extension programs. Many of these initiatives focus on healthy eating, physical activity, entrepreneurship and improving the economic conditions of small farmers. Examples of this work include: Extension professionals at Alabama …
Understanding bioactive dietary chemicals
The foods and drinks we consume contain natural chemicals (vitamins, minerals, fat, sugar, protein, flavonoids, toxicants, hormones, and more) that can positively or negatively impact human health. Since 1971, a multistate project has brought together researchers at 22 land-grant universities to conduct cutting-edge research on the effects of dietary bioactive chemicals on human health, chronic diseases, and food safety. To …
Researchers across America are advancing nutrition
Collaborative research by land-grant universities plays an important role in advancing our understanding of human health and nutrition and improving access to and consumption of safe, high-quality, nutritious foods nationwide. Researchers tackle nutrition issues in many ways: DISCOVERING compounds that are beneficial to human health and understanding the role they play in preventing chronic diseases; BREEDING fruit and vegetable varieties …
Diabetes prevention and patient empowerment
One in three adults in the United States has prediabetes, and 10.5% of the population has diabetes. Both increase the risk for heart disease and stroke among other negative health outcomes. Extension educators teach participants to eat healthy, manage stress and increase physical activity. This all helps manage weight and prevent diabetes and other chronic diseases. A collaborative approach helps …
Community nutrition programs improve healthful outcomes
Community Nutrition Education Programs, a service of the Land-grant University System, use Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed) funding to educate and empower low-income individuals, families, school-age youth and pregnant teens. Extension educators across the country deliver research-based, hands-on learning experiences on diet quality, food safety, physical activity, food security and food …
Land-grant universities help communities cope with mental health, substance abuse challenges
Across the country, many communities — especially those in rural areas — are facing growing challenges related to mental health and substance abuse. Extension personnel with land-grant universities are in a unique position to help educate and encourage those they serve and have developed a variety of efforts to tackle these problems, which have economic, social and other consequences. Here …
Preparing the next generation of farm operators
Farm families facing the challenging issue of transferring the farm to the next generation confront many hurdles in putting together a sound succession plan. Some programs are helping farmers with financial management – solidifying and preserving farm operations, ensuring these operations are profitable, sustainable, and transferrable in the years to come. Successful examples include: Purdue Extension adapted a program from …
Exploring commercial hemp production
Producer interest in industrial hemp is gaining traction. Hemp is a Cannabis sativa plant that was cultivated for 10,000 years as a fiber and grain crop used in textiles, building materials, seed oil, essential oils and much more. Land-grant university researchers and educators are helping producers learn about its viability, nutrient requirements and management practices as interest grows following the …
Staying a step ahead of pests
Researchers at the nation’s land-grant universities are helping protect food crops from direct insect damage and diseases spread by insect pests. Their work helps improve crop quality, crop yield and farm profitability. Here are a few examples of that work: At Fort Valley State University in Georgia, researchers have found a combination of beneficial nematodes and a widely available insecticide …
Improving the health of livestock animals
Livestock producers are continually searching for new management strategies that will help them be both innovative and better animal stewards. Maintaining healthy animals may also protect human health. Here are a few examples of that work: A Georgia poultry scientist worked with a pharmaceutical company to redesign their Salmonella vaccine to reduce poultry deaths. The vaccine, which contains killed Salmonella, …
Land-grant expertise make specialty crops viable
Specialty crops range from fruits and vegetables to cut flowers. These plants are cultivated for food, medicine or pleasure. Specialty crops face the same pressures as traditional row crops. Land-grant university research and outreach address these issues, making specialty crops a viable, profitable market. Successful examples include: Each year Georgia apple growers contend with tremendous pest and disease pressures to …
Reaching out to farmers in crisis through mental health initiatives
With stressors including long working hours, financial uncertainty, isolation in rural areas and seasonality, farming has been identified as one of the most stressful occupations — and farmers are at a risk of physical and mental health issues as a result of this occupational stress, including an increased risk of suicide. Land-grant universities across the country are on the forefront …
4-H programming at the Natchitoches Farmer’s Market
4-H is a youth development organization devoted to bringing innovative programs to youth across the nation. Focused on providing innovative Healthy Living Programming, 4-H seeks to empower youth to make healthy choices and bring healthy habits to their families and communities. According to County Health Rankings.org, Natchitoches Parish boasts a 42% obesity rate, 32% of the children live in poverty, …
Alabama Beginning Farmer Program
Alabama has a booming fruit and vegetable production industry which generates more than $160 million in revenue and provides employment to thousands of residents. The growth in the industry is also representative of the growth in local food movement and organic farming in the South. It is incredibly difficult to start farming, especially if the individual does not have earlier …
Fresh on DeK brings nutrition education
DeKalb County residents are still experiencing negative impact on health and wellness due to high food costs and impact from COVID-19. Concerns over food insecurity also affect physical and mental health. The DeKalb County Fresh on DeK Mobile Farmers Market was established to serve DeKalb County citizens in the areas of nutrition and wellness. The Mobile Farmer’s Market visits 16 …
Prioritizing food and nutrition security
Many Michiganders struggle to reliably access nutrient-rich foods; this is especially true for households with children and with racial and ethnic minorities. MSU Extension community nutrition instructors contribute to efforts throughout the state focused on supporting access to and consumption of vegetables and fruit. MSU Extension staff members delivered relevant and practical nutrition education—a key component of the Fruit and …
The St. Helena Farmers Market, a small oasis in a rural food desert
Food insecurity, defined as the lack of access to a reliable source of food during a given year, is high in St. Helena, one of Louisianas eight Florida Parishes. The food insecurity rate here is 32%. There are only two grocery stores nearby: one in town and another about 10 miles outside of town. St. Helena Parish is not alone …
Taking care of America’s forests
Forests are a critical part of life on Earth. They purify air, filter water, store carbon, provide food and shelter for a diverse array of plants and animals, and produce natural resources like timber, paper and medicine. Forests are also important places for recreation and cultural practices. But forests across the United States are under threat from pests, pathogens, deforestation, …
1890 Historically Black land-grants bridge the gap to empower communities
Within the national Land-Grant University System, 19 Historically Black Colleges and Universities are bridging the gap between information and lack of resources to enhance underserved communities through research and Cooperative Extension programs. Many of these initiatives focus on healthy eating, physical activity, entrepreneurship and improving the economic conditions of small farmers. Examples of this work include: Extension professionals at Alabama …
Scientists across the country working to create more nutrient-dense diets
Many American diets don’t include enough basic nutrients, which can lead to health issues as we age. Low-nutrient diet lead to issues, including macular degeneration, Alzheimer’s disease, obesity and diabetes. Improving the nutritional quality of basic crops through plant breeding is a cost-effective, sustainable way to address these nutritional needs. Researchers at land-grant universities across the country are seeking ways …
Scaling up skills for success in agriculture
To remain competitive in the agricultural industry, farmers must stay current on the latest techniques and technology. Training new workers is also essential to building necessary skills in the agricultural labor force. Here are a few examples of that work: To improve ornamental horticulture industry profits, Hawaii Extension provides education for nursery and floriculture business owners and workers on crop …
4-H programming at the Natchitoches Farmer’s Market
4-H is a youth development organization devoted to bringing innovative programs to youth across the nation. Focused on providing innovative Healthy Living Programming, 4-H seeks to empower youth to make healthy choices and bring healthy habits to their families and communities. According to County Health Rankings.org, Natchitoches Parish boasts a 42% obesity rate, 32% of the children live in poverty, …
Alabama Beginning Farmer Program
Alabama has a booming fruit and vegetable production industry which generates more than $160 million in revenue and provides employment to thousands of residents. The growth in the industry is also representative of the growth in local food movement and organic farming in the South. It is incredibly difficult to start farming, especially if the individual does not have earlier …
Fresh on DeK brings nutrition education
DeKalb County residents are still experiencing negative impact on health and wellness due to high food costs and impact from COVID-19. Concerns over food insecurity also affect physical and mental health. The DeKalb County Fresh on DeK Mobile Farmers Market was established to serve DeKalb County citizens in the areas of nutrition and wellness. The Mobile Farmer’s Market visits 16 …
Prioritizing food and nutrition security
Many Michiganders struggle to reliably access nutrient-rich foods; this is especially true for households with children and with racial and ethnic minorities. MSU Extension community nutrition instructors contribute to efforts throughout the state focused on supporting access to and consumption of vegetables and fruit. MSU Extension staff members delivered relevant and practical nutrition education—a key component of the Fruit and …
The St. Helena Farmers Market, a small oasis in a rural food desert
Food insecurity, defined as the lack of access to a reliable source of food during a given year, is high in St. Helena, one of Louisianas eight Florida Parishes. The food insecurity rate here is 32%. There are only two grocery stores nearby: one in town and another about 10 miles outside of town. St. Helena Parish is not alone …
Controlling pests and protecting pollinators
Most agricultural systems in the Northeast rely on pesticides to ensure high yields and profits, but pesticides can pose risks to essential pollinators and environmental health. To reduce reliance on pesticides, scientists are exploring ways to harness natural plant defenses, such as emitting chemicals that slow insect feeding, inhibit infections, call beneficial insects to their aid, or warn other plants. …
Sustainable solutions to bee health
Bees provide essential pollination for many of the nut, berry, fruit, vegetable, and seed crops grown in the U.S. To supplement wild bee pollination, farmers often rent managed honey bee colonies. Demand is skyrocketing, but catastrophic die-offs are threatening the supply of healthy honey bee colonies. Parasitic mites, pathogens, pesticide chemicals, nutritional deficits, and environmental conditions have contributed to the …
Agriculture and natural resource management in western United States
Climate information – historical, real-time and predictive – is vital for the sustainable management of agriculture and natural resources. Climate change poses major challenges to agriculture and natural resources in the western United States. Climate data are key to practices, tools, legislation, programs and policies that protect and enhance water, soil and air. With so many different entities collecting climate …
Protecting eastern white pine
The eastern white pine tree is a crucial ecological and economic component of forests in the eastern United States. White pines provide critical food and shelter for wildlife and store carbon. They also provide valuable lumber and are commonly used for reforestation, landscaping and Christmas trees. The potential economic value of standing white pine is $18.6 billion. Eastern white pines …
Safer, more sustainable pest management
Managing pests is essential to healthy, safe and productive agricultural, urban, residential and natural areas. However, chemical pesticides can cause air and water pollution and unintended harm to nontarget organisms. Exposure to pesticides has also been linked to human health problems. In addition, many pests eventually develop resistance to commonly used chemicals, rendering them ineffective. Researchers at land-grant universities across …
Taking care of America’s forests
Forests are a critical part of life on Earth. They purify air, filter water, store carbon, provide food and shelter for a diverse array of plants and animals, and produce natural resources like timber, paper and medicine. Forests are also important places for recreation and cultural practices. But forests across the United States are under threat from pests, pathogens, deforestation, …
Protecting habitats and biodiversity
Natural ecosystems provide clean air and water, food and shelter for wildlife and recreation opportunities. Agriculture, urbanization, climate change, pests and other stressors put America’s landscapes and native species, including essential pollinators, at risk. U.S. Land-grant universities are working to restore and protect ecosystems and biodiversity. Here are a few examples of that work: Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) molecules …
Managing waste
Agricultural wastes, like manure, animal carcasses and wastewater, can pose environmental and human health risks if not handled safely. Some wastes can be reused as fertilizers, but if not properly managed, excess nitrogen, phosphorous, and pathogens can run off or leach into ground and surface waters. Land-grant universities are finding ways to safely dispose of or reuse agricultural wastes. Here …
Agriculture and natural resource management in western United States
Climate information – historical, real-time and predictive – is vital for the sustainable management of agriculture and natural resources. Climate change poses major challenges to agriculture and natural resources in the western United States. Climate data are key to practices, tools, legislation, programs and policies that protect and enhance water, soil and air. With so many different entities collecting climate …
Protecting eastern white pine
The eastern white pine tree is a crucial ecological and economic component of forests in the eastern United States. White pines provide critical food and shelter for wildlife and store carbon. They also provide valuable lumber and are commonly used for reforestation, landscaping and Christmas trees. The potential economic value of standing white pine is $18.6 billion. Eastern white pines …
Safer, more sustainable pest management
Managing pests is essential to healthy, safe and productive agricultural, urban, residential and natural areas. However, chemical pesticides can cause air and water pollution and unintended harm to nontarget organisms. Exposure to pesticides has also been linked to human health problems. In addition, many pests eventually develop resistance to commonly used chemicals, rendering them ineffective. Researchers at land-grant universities across …
Taking care of America’s forests
Forests are a critical part of life on Earth. They purify air, filter water, store carbon, provide food and shelter for a diverse array of plants and animals, and produce natural resources like timber, paper and medicine. Forests are also important places for recreation and cultural practices. But forests across the United States are under threat from pests, pathogens, deforestation, …
Protecting habitats and biodiversity
Natural ecosystems provide clean air and water, food and shelter for wildlife and recreation opportunities. Agriculture, urbanization, climate change, pests and other stressors put America’s landscapes and native species, including essential pollinators, at risk. U.S. Land-grant universities are working to restore and protect ecosystems and biodiversity. Here are a few examples of that work: Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) molecules …
Managing waste
Agricultural wastes, like manure, animal carcasses and wastewater, can pose environmental and human health risks if not handled safely. Some wastes can be reused as fertilizers, but if not properly managed, excess nitrogen, phosphorous, and pathogens can run off or leach into ground and surface waters. Land-grant universities are finding ways to safely dispose of or reuse agricultural wastes. Here …
Scientists across the country working to create more nutrient-dense diets
Many American diets don’t include enough basic nutrients, which can lead to health issues as we age. Low-nutrient diet lead to issues, including macular degeneration, Alzheimer’s disease, obesity and diabetes. Improving the nutritional quality of basic crops through plant breeding is a cost-effective, sustainable way to address these nutritional needs. Researchers at land-grant universities across the country are seeking ways …
Fresh on DeK brings nutrition education
DeKalb County residents are still experiencing negative impact on health and wellness due to high food costs and impact from COVID-19. Concerns over food insecurity also affect physical and mental health. The DeKalb County Fresh on DeK Mobile Farmers Market was established to serve DeKalb County citizens in the areas of nutrition and wellness. The Mobile Farmer’s Market visits 16 …
Prioritizing food and nutrition security
Many Michiganders struggle to reliably access nutrient-rich foods; this is especially true for households with children and with racial and ethnic minorities. MSU Extension community nutrition instructors contribute to efforts throughout the state focused on supporting access to and consumption of vegetables and fruit. MSU Extension staff members delivered relevant and practical nutrition education—a key component of the Fruit and …
The St. Helena Farmers Market, a small oasis in a rural food desert
Food insecurity, defined as the lack of access to a reliable source of food during a given year, is high in St. Helena, one of Louisianas eight Florida Parishes. The food insecurity rate here is 32%. There are only two grocery stores nearby: one in town and another about 10 miles outside of town. St. Helena Parish is not alone …
Improving crops key to food security
Research at land-grant institutions keeps the U.S. food production on the cutting edge when it comes to quality, nutrition, disease resistance and other factors that help keep our food system safe and contribute to national security. Successful examples include: In North Dakota, nitrogen fertilizers are the single largest expense for food crops such as wheat, corn, canola, barley, sugar beets …
Land-grant universities improve local food security
Food security impacts individuals, as well as the health of entire communities. Through creation of food pantries, community gardens, food drives, farmers markets and more, land-grant universities and local community initiatives collaborate to keep food on the table for many. Successful examples include: An effort begun during Covid-19 is still providing high-quality shrimp to food banks in Louisiana. With help …
Beekeeper education and training is critical to Florida’s large honey industry
Honey bees contribute nearly $20 billion to the crop industry by providing pollination services all over the United States. There are nearly 5,000 registered beekeepers in the state of Florida, managing approximately 650,000 colonies. Florida’s honey industry is ranked among the top five in the nation, producing more than 10 million pounds in 2018. Nearly 85% of these are considered …
Managing controlled environments efficiently
In controlled environmental agriculture, plants are grown inside a greenhouse or other type of enclosure where growers can maintain optimal growing conditions, such as light, temperature, humidity, water, and nutrients. In the northeastern climate, controlled environments play a vital role in year-round production, but growers need more information about how to fine-tune their environments to achieve optimal plant growth and …
Strong farms strengthen local food systems
New farmers just starting out and established farmers looking to expand markets have something in common: looking to the Land-grant University System to support their growth. Strong local farms strengthen local food systems and food security.
Reaching diverse farms and farmers
Extension educators and researchers across the Land-grant University System reach diverse farmers and farms through programming, information and accessible tools. Their work ensures farming resources are available to all individuals.
Research, education improve livestock health
Livestock producers are continually searching for the best management strategies to protect animal health, which is essential to productivity and profitability as well as the animal’s well-being. Maintaining healthy animals also protects human health.
Improving the health of livestock animals
Livestock producers are continually searching for new management strategies that will help them be both innovative and better animal stewards. Maintaining healthy animals may also protect human health. Here are a few examples of that work: A Georgia poultry scientist worked with a pharmaceutical company to redesign their Salmonella vaccine to reduce poultry deaths. The vaccine, which contains killed Salmonella, …
Fire and Clay: University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa fire ecology expert
When natural disasters strike, we look to experts for answers. The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s Clay Trauernicht, a fire ecology and Pacific Island ecosystems specialist, gave interviews for over 50 media outlets during the Maui wildfires tragedy. His expertise provided historical and ecological context to the fires and supported international awareness. Read more about Trauernicht’s media expertise.
From Hardship to Hope: University of Wisconsin-Madison WeCOPE
61% of farmers indicated increasing stress and mental health challenges in a recent Farm Bureau poll. A team from the University of Wisconsin-Madison cultivates communities that can contend with these stresses together. “Often, programs focus on telling farmers they have stress — farmers know that,” Dr. Shutske, program leader says. “WeCOPE instead focuses on high-impact, proactive skills we know measurably …
From wildfires to workloads, Western farmers face more stress and mental health issues
Farmers and ranchers in the West are being pressured by rising production costs and increased workloads. A recent University of Nevada, Reno study found that producers are also facing regional stressors in the form of wildfires and extreme weather. “We’re in a situation where the farmer-rancher suicide rate is six times higher than the general population,” says Brenda Freeman, a …
Crisis helpline for Oregon’s agricultural and forestry communities is now open
Mental health is a critical concern for our farming and ranching communities. This September, AgriSafe Network, with assistance of Oregon State University Extension, launched the Oregon Agristress Helpline, offering 24/7 crisis support for farmers, ranchers, fishermen, foresters and their families. “The Oregon Agristress Helpline – 833-897-2474 – is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week by call or …
North Carolina A&T receives $100K grant from Tides Foundation, Google.org to assist N.C. livestock producers
Eight African American livestock and poultry producers in North Carolina will be eligible to receive technology funding and training thanks to a grant received by North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University through Google.org, Google’s philanthropic arm, and the Tides Foundation. Read more about the “Enhancing the Technology Capacity and Technical Knowledge of North Carolina African American Poultry and Livestock Producers” …
Dorchester County, South Carolina Fire Rescue receives equipment to help with grain bin emergencies
Grain bin safety is a serious concern in agricultural communities. This August, Clemson University Extension experts partnered with the South Carolina Farm Bureau to provide hands-on trainings in grain bin rescues for first responders in Dorchester County, SC. Read more about the Dorchester County Fire Rescue trainings with Clemson University.
Increase in ag fatalities and injuries highlights need for training
Last year, Purdue University research revealed a 40% increase in reported cases of confined space incidents on farms. “In 2022, the summary reported 83 cases – 24 fatal and 59 non-fatal – involving agricultural confined spaces. This represents a 40.7% increase over the 59 cases reported in 2021. Not every case may be reported, and as a result, these numbers …
Rural Georgia: Growing Stronger
“Rural life is often portrayed as an idyllic throwback to simpler times, where communities and neighbors come together in times of crisis and hardship. While the characterization of the tight-knit small town may ring true in many cases, rural communities still face all of the same modern-day challenges and adversities as their urban counterparts. When they do, they are often …
Farmer Focus Conference makes its way to Pohnpei, Micronesia
A recent study from the University of Guam examined agricultural stressors and opportunities in Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the Federated States of Micronesia. The newly released reports summarize survey responses from 161 farm workers and 216 farmers. Using the data collected from these surveys, the University of Guam Farmer Focus Project curated their annual conference on farmer mental …
Migrant farmworkers receive much needed health screens
Programs that help anyone improve or maintain their health are key. This is especially true for migrant farmworkers, an underserved community across the country. Screening for chronic health problems such as hypertension and diabetes and providing important information about healthy lifestyles improves farmworkers’ ability to continue to work and make a living. Here are examples of that work: Florida is …
Diabetes prevention and patient empowerment
One in three adults in the United States has prediabetes, and 10.5% of the population has diabetes. Both increase the risk for heart disease and stroke among other negative health outcomes. Extension educators teach participants to eat healthy, manage stress and increase physical activity. This all helps manage weight and prevent diabetes and other chronic diseases. A collaborative approach helps …
Community nutrition programs improve healthful outcomes
Community Nutrition Education Programs, a service of the Land-grant University System, use Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed) funding to educate and empower low-income individuals, families, school-age youth and pregnant teens. Extension educators across the country deliver research-based, hands-on learning experiences on diet quality, food safety, physical activity, food security and food …
Scientists across the country working to create more nutrient-dense diets
Many American diets don’t include enough basic nutrients, which can lead to health issues as we age. Low-nutrient diet lead to issues, including macular degeneration, Alzheimer’s disease, obesity and diabetes. Improving the nutritional quality of basic crops through plant breeding is a cost-effective, sustainable way to address these nutritional needs. Researchers at land-grant universities across the country are seeking ways …
Twiggs County, Georgia community comes together for health and wellness
Residents of Twiggs County participate in the Stepping into Fall Walkathon organized by Fort Valley State University’s Cooperative Extension Program in Jeffersonville, Georgia. Residents of Jeffersonville, Georgia, gathered at the City Hall Square to participate in a program organized by Fort Valley University’s (FVSU) Cooperative Extension Program. From September 20-22, 75 residents walked more than a mile during the Stepping …
Southern University Ag Center develops interactive mental health resource for farmers
SU Ag Center Works to Develop an Interactive Mental Health Resource Database Tailored to assist Farmers Contact: LaKeeshia G. Lusk | 225-771-2160 | lakeeshia_giddens@suagcenter.com Baton Rouge, La. – Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center’s (SU Ag Center) mental health specialist, Ashlyn Harrison, LPC, NCC, is making significant strides in addressing the mental health challenges faced by farmers in Louisiana. …
Programs for an aging population focus on small ways to make a big difference
The percentage of the U.S. population over the age of 50 is rapidly rising, with the aging of the baby-boomer generation. In addition, a disproportionate share of this aging population growth is in rural areas, where access to health-based services is more limited and the mortality rate higher. Extension services across the country have found ways to target specific health …
Land-grant universities help communities cope with mental health, substance abuse challenges
Across the country, many communities — especially those in rural areas — are facing growing challenges related to mental health and substance abuse. Extension personnel with land-grant universities are in a unique position to help educate and encourage those they serve and have developed a variety of efforts to tackle these problems, which have economic, social and other consequences. Here …
Reaching out to farmers in crisis through mental health initiatives
With stressors including long working hours, financial uncertainty, isolation in rural areas and seasonality, farming has been identified as one of the most stressful occupations — and farmers are at a risk of physical and mental health issues as a result of this occupational stress, including an increased risk of suicide. Land-grant universities across the country are on the forefront …
Controlling pests and protecting pollinators
Most agricultural systems in the Northeast rely on pesticides to ensure high yields and profits, but pesticides can pose risks to essential pollinators and environmental health. To reduce reliance on pesticides, scientists are exploring ways to harness natural plant defenses, such as emitting chemicals that slow insect feeding, inhibit infections, call beneficial insects to their aid, or warn other plants. …
Safer, more sustainable pest management
Managing pests is essential to healthy, safe and productive agricultural, urban, residential and natural areas. However, chemical pesticides can cause air and water pollution and unintended harm to nontarget organisms. Exposure to pesticides has also been linked to human health problems. In addition, many pests eventually develop resistance to commonly used chemicals, rendering them ineffective. Researchers at land-grant universities across …
Staying a step ahead of pests
Researchers at the nation’s land-grant universities are helping protect food crops from direct insect damage and diseases spread by insect pests. Their work helps improve crop quality, crop yield and farm profitability. Here are a few examples of that work: At Fort Valley State University in Georgia, researchers have found a combination of beneficial nematodes and a widely available insecticide …
Controlling pests and protecting pollinators
Most agricultural systems in the Northeast rely on pesticides to ensure high yields and profits, but pesticides can pose risks to essential pollinators and environmental health. To reduce reliance on pesticides, scientists are exploring ways to harness natural plant defenses, such as emitting chemicals that slow insect feeding, inhibit infections, call beneficial insects to their aid, or warn other plants. …
Sustainable solutions to bee health
Bees provide essential pollination for many of the nut, berry, fruit, vegetable, and seed crops grown in the U.S. To supplement wild bee pollination, farmers often rent managed honey bee colonies. Demand is skyrocketing, but catastrophic die-offs are threatening the supply of healthy honey bee colonies. Parasitic mites, pathogens, pesticide chemicals, nutritional deficits, and environmental conditions have contributed to the …
Horticulture practices promote pollinator proliferation
A pollinator is any animal that visits flowering plants, moving pollen from flower to flower, supporting plant fruiting and reproduction. In North America, insect pollinators include bees, butterflies, moths, flower flies, beetles and wasps. The worlds natural systems rely heavily on pollinators to ensure ecosystem functioning and ensure future horticulture crops. According to the USDA, about 35% of the worlds …
Mitigating the impacts of agrochemicals
Pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, and other agrochemicals are used on farms to protect crop yield and quality and in urban and residential settings to control pests and weeds. Despite important uses, agrochemicals can leach into soil and groundwater or flow into surface waters, where the chemicals can adversely affect human and environmental health. Agrochemicals can also accumulate in edible organisms, creating …
4-H enriches science education by challenging critical thinking skills related to lifecycles
Knowledge of the animal life cycles is a core learning area Kentucky students. Especially important are the life cycles of pollinators like butterflies. This has lead Extension Agents to work closely with local school teachers to partner in addressing this need. In Kenton County, 4-H Youth Development and Horticulture agents collaborated with 10 teachers from 4 school districts in the …
Arkansas study shows nocturnal pollinators have similar pollinating potential as diurnal pollinators
The study overseen by Ashley Dowling, professor of entomology for the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station, was among the first to examine nocturnal pollination in agriculture and the first recorded study on night pollinators for apples. Robertson said apples were chosen because they are a primary food crop in the United States. Dowling said the night pollinator study was important because …
Beekeeper education and training is critical to Florida’s large honey industry
Honey bees contribute nearly $20 billion to the crop industry by providing pollination services all over the United States. There are nearly 5,000 registered beekeepers in the state of Florida, managing approximately 650,000 colonies. Florida’s honey industry is ranked among the top five in the nation, producing more than 10 million pounds in 2018. Nearly 85% of these are considered …
Increasing public awareness of pollinators as contributors to global food security
Pollination involves the process of pollen transference from a male part of a flower to the female part of the flower, subsequently causing fecundation. This procedure is performed by a pollinator. Although this process is well known, day after day we keep losing them. To deal with this situation, the Puerto Rico Agricultural Extension Service (PRAES) in collaboration with the …
Safer, more sustainable pest management
Managing pests is essential to healthy, safe and productive agricultural, urban, residential and natural areas. However, chemical pesticides can cause air and water pollution and unintended harm to nontarget organisms. Exposure to pesticides has also been linked to human health problems. In addition, many pests eventually develop resistance to commonly used chemicals, rendering them ineffective. Researchers at land-grant universities across …
MULTISTATE RESEARCH FUND IMPACTS
Administered by USDA-NIFA since 1998, the Multistate Research Fund supports agricultural innovation and sustainability by providing federal funds to collaborative research projects led by State Agricultural Experiment Stations and land-grant universities.
NATIONAL IMPACTS DATABASE
The National Impacts Database (NIDB) documents and demonstrates the collective and individual impacts of the land-grant system in teaching, research, and Extension.
NATIONAL INFORMATION MANAGEMENT & SUPPORT SYSTEM
The National Information Management and Support System (NIMSS) is a web-based application that will allow participants of Multistate Research Projects and Activities to submit proposals and reports online.
NATIONAL REGISTRY OF COOPERATIVE EXTENSION PROGRAMS AND ASSETS
This tool enables Cooperative Extension professionals to register their projects, programs, or curriculum for nationwide collaboration among Cooperative Extension colleagues.
NIFA GATEWAY
The National Institute of Food and Agriculture is committed to serving its stakeholders, Congress, and the public by using new technologies to advance greater openness.
NIFA IMPACTS
With NIFA funding, researchers across our nation make significant strides toward solving society’s challenges in the areas of climate, bioenergy, education, the environment, family & consumer sciences, food safety, nutrition, sustainable agriculture, and youth development.
AGINNOVATION
Experiment Station scientists provide research and discoveries that fuel Cooperative Extension’s hands-on education curriculum and work with farmers, ranchers, suppliers, processors, and others involved in food production and agriculture.
New manual aids farmers market start-ups and maintenance
Farmers markets are a sales outlet for many South Dakota gardeners, but they can also help strengthen a community by stimulating the local economy and creating local entrepreneurial opportunities. Markets can promote food quality by reducing the distance that food travels from farm to consumer. When shipping is less of a concern, produce can be picked when it is full …
NIFA invests $70M in sustainable agricultural research
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) announced today an investment of $70 million in sustainable agricultural projects that integrate research, education, and Extension efforts. The goal is to establish robust, resilient, and climate-smart food and agricultural systems. This investment is made under NIFA’s Sustainable Agricultural Systems program. This innovative program focuses on a broad base of …
Urban agriculture and food systems
Urban agriculture and food systems comprises inner-city small farms, community and school gardens; backyard and rooftop horticulture, innovative food-growing methods maximizing yields in small areas, and controlled environment agriculture. Urban Agriculture includes farms supplying urban farmers markets and farm stands, community-supported agriculture buying clubs, and family farms located in metropolitan green belts near urban centers. Urban Agriculture is immensely important …
Managing controlled environments efficiently
In controlled environmental agriculture, plants are grown inside a greenhouse or other type of enclosure where growers can maintain optimal growing conditions, such as light, temperature, humidity, water, and nutrients. In the northeastern climate, controlled environments play a vital role in year-round production, but growers need more information about how to fine-tune their environments to achieve optimal plant growth and …
Agriculture and natural resource management in western United States
Climate information – historical, real-time and predictive – is vital for the sustainable management of agriculture and natural resources. Climate change poses major challenges to agriculture and natural resources in the western United States. Climate data are key to practices, tools, legislation, programs and policies that protect and enhance water, soil and air. With so many different entities collecting climate …
Scaling up skills for success in agriculture
To remain competitive in the agricultural industry, farmers must stay current on the latest techniques and technology. Training new workers is also essential to building necessary skills in the agricultural labor force. Here are a few examples of that work: To improve ornamental horticulture industry profits, Hawaii Extension provides education for nursery and floriculture business owners and workers on crop …
NC A&T landscape architecture graduating class designs a straight path to careers
Landscape architecture’s Class of 2023: (from left) Octavia Coleman, Nacoma Hunt, Silas Lindsey, assistant professor Steve Rasmussen Cancian, Chavious Burns and Ivan Vazquez. All five students are graduating with jobs in their field. The landscape architecture program at North Carolina A&T State University, the state’s only undergraduate program, has built onto its resume this spring by graduating its entire senior …
Extension transforms traditional outreach to virtual learning programs
Working within COVID-19 restrictions, land-grant university Extension programs worked with agencies and community partners to conduct virtual meetings helping farmers and producers update their knowledge and earn the continuing education credits required to maintain their certifications. Successful examples include: In Delaware, Extension collaborated with the Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association of Delaware to provide annual educational meetings for growers. These …
Investing in community development
Advancing the growth of communities, multiple land-grant universities are providing vital programs to help with finding employment, opening a business and offering essential services for those in need. Research and Cooperative Extension experts are making a difference in the communities they serve. Successful examples include: In Alabama, 1890 Extension professionals are “Promoting Readiness for Employment Possibilities,” educating 595 participants about …
Developing a diverse and thriving workforce
Access to quality education and career opportunities are key components to success among underserved and at-risk communities. Land-grant universities are working to identify and address barriers to inclusion, benefitting individuals, communities and economies. Here are a few examples of that work: In Missouri, rural counties experience high rates of drug overdose, suicide and related diseases. The Rural Opioid Technical Assistance …
1890 Historically Black land-grants bridge the gap to empower communities
Within the national Land-Grant University System, 19 Historically Black Colleges and Universities are bridging the gap between information and lack of resources to enhance underserved communities through research and Cooperative Extension programs. Many of these initiatives focus on healthy eating, physical activity, entrepreneurship and improving the economic conditions of small farmers. Examples of this work include: Extension professionals at Alabama …
Community nutrition programs improve healthful outcomes
Community Nutrition Education Programs, a service of the Land-grant University System, use Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed) funding to educate and empower low-income individuals, families, school-age youth and pregnant teens. Extension educators across the country deliver research-based, hands-on learning experiences on diet quality, food safety, physical activity, food security and food …
4-H educates youths on the importance of agriculture
With less than 2% of Americans living on a farm, broad societal misconceptions about farming and aging farmers, it is imperative to inspire, educate and cultivate the next generation of farmers and agricultural leaders. Young people need to hear authentic stories, have access to engaging and immersive education and see demonstrations of 21st-century farming. Examples of this work include: In …
Programs for an aging population focus on small ways to make a big difference
The percentage of the U.S. population over the age of 50 is rapidly rising, with the aging of the baby-boomer generation. In addition, a disproportionate share of this aging population growth is in rural areas, where access to health-based services is more limited and the mortality rate higher. Extension services across the country have found ways to target specific health …
4-H enriches science education by challenging critical thinking skills related to lifecycles
Knowledge of the animal life cycles is a core learning area Kentucky students. Especially important are the life cycles of pollinators like butterflies. This has lead Extension Agents to work closely with local school teachers to partner in addressing this need. In Kenton County, 4-H Youth Development and Horticulture agents collaborated with 10 teachers from 4 school districts in the …
Extension transforms traditional outreach to virtual learning programs
Working within COVID-19 restrictions, land-grant university Extension programs worked with agencies and community partners to conduct virtual meetings helping farmers and producers update their knowledge and earn the continuing education credits required to maintain their certifications. Successful examples include: In Delaware, Extension collaborated with the Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association of Delaware to provide annual educational meetings for growers. These …
Investing in community development
Advancing the growth of communities, multiple land-grant universities are providing vital programs to help with finding employment, opening a business and offering essential services for those in need. Research and Cooperative Extension experts are making a difference in the communities they serve. Successful examples include: In Alabama, 1890 Extension professionals are “Promoting Readiness for Employment Possibilities,” educating 595 participants about …
Developing a diverse and thriving workforce
Access to quality education and career opportunities are key components to success among underserved and at-risk communities. Land-grant universities are working to identify and address barriers to inclusion, benefitting individuals, communities and economies. Here are a few examples of that work: In Missouri, rural counties experience high rates of drug overdose, suicide and related diseases. The Rural Opioid Technical Assistance …
Land-grant universities help communities cope with mental health, substance abuse challenges
Across the country, many communities — especially those in rural areas — are facing growing challenges related to mental health and substance abuse. Extension personnel with land-grant universities are in a unique position to help educate and encourage those they serve and have developed a variety of efforts to tackle these problems, which have economic, social and other consequences. Here …
Preparing the next generation of farm operators
Farm families facing the challenging issue of transferring the farm to the next generation confront many hurdles in putting together a sound succession plan. Some programs are helping farmers with financial management – solidifying and preserving farm operations, ensuring these operations are profitable, sustainable, and transferrable in the years to come. Successful examples include: Purdue Extension adapted a program from …