USDA offers $146 million for sustainable ag research

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is offering more than $146 million for sustainable agricultural research projects.

"It's aimed at improving a robust, resilient, climate-smart food and agricultural system," Secretary Tom Vilsack.

Under the National Institute of Food and Agriculture's (NIFA) Sustainable Agricultural Systems program the project focuses on a broad base of research for solutions to address labor challenges and land stewardship for climate change impacts by agriculture, and critical needs in food and nutrition.

"USDA is tackling urgent challenges facing American agriculture and communities across our nation. Critical issues like food insecurity, drought resilience and response, animal disease prevention, and market disruption requires investments to help meet these challenges," said Secretary Vilsack.

This investment is designed to improve plant and animal production and sustainability, and human and environmental health, according to a spokesperson.

"Investments in research projects likes these awarded today will result in long-term improvements in agricultural practices that will benefit consumers, farmers and the environment," said Dr. Carrie Castille.