Issues We Focus On

The National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), the USDA agency that provides the bulk of the Center's federal funding, defines five issue areas in which the Center works. These are: Global food security, hunger and farm systems; Climate change; Sustainable energy; Food safety and functionality; Obesity. Center programs also work in three additional areas: Agricultural economic development; Youth development; Environmental stewardship.

Food Security and Farm Systems

Massachusetts is a leader in creating sustainable, local food production capacity. Expanding demand for direct sales, organic production, specialty crops, value-added products and community supported farms reflect interest and increasing commitment to local agriculture. At the same time, many residents of the state, especially those with low incomes, have difficulty taking advantage of fresh foods. The Center addresses food security in Massachusetts and the region through research and public education focusing on new production techniques and marketing strategies that protect natural resource systems while ensuring a healthy, fresh and stable supply of food and by providing research-based nutrition education in communities with higher food insecurity.

Click here for more information.  

Climate Change

Massachusetts growers must meet the formidable challenges posed by the increasing demand for locally produced food against the backdrop of a changing climate. Local crop and animal agricultural systems will need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, adapt to unpredictable weather conditions and effectively balance new competitive pressures that arise from cultivating crops as alternative energy sources. The Massachusetts Center for Agriculture will play a key role in generating research and education to sustain a vital agricultural sector and take advantage of emerging benefits and opportunities related to climate change.

Click here for more information.

Sustainable Energy

Minor variations in the supply and demand for energy can affect agricultural production with significant implications for the health and sustainability of our regional economy. The cost of energy profoundly influences farming practices, management decisions, products and profitability. The Center for Agriculture is an important resource for stimulating innovation in alternative and renewable energy sources. Research and education programs enable consumers to save money and make environmentally sound choices, while minimizing the financial vulnerability of agricultural businesses.

Click here for more information.

Food Safety

Food borne pathogens account for millions of illnesses and thousands of deaths in the United States each year. The annual medical cost of food borne illness in Massachusetts alone is over $200 million. Federal agencies have established guidelines for workers and managers in food retail establishments, residential facilities, schools and child care settings. The Massachusetts Center for Agriculture helps growers and businesses meet federal standards. Scientific research, education and certification programs improve practices in all sectors of the food system to ensure the safety of food grown, processed and consumed in Massachusetts.

Click here for more information.

Childhood Obesity

Childhood obesity is reaching unprecedented levels nationally and in Massachusetts. Fortunately, the long-term health problems typically associated with obesity in childhood are reversible but can lead to obesity as adults. The Massachusetts Center for Agriculture conducts research and community outreach to inform policies and create programs that increase access to local produce, teach families about healthy foods choices, and help children develop more active lifestyles. Nutrition education programs are delivered to families with limited resources through a statewide network of community collaborators, so that healthy habits are established during childhood, reducing the most harmful effects of obesity and leading to healthier and more productive lives.

Click here for more information.

Agricultural Economic Development

Agricultural businesses provide employment opportunities, income, products and services that support our local economies and meet the diverse needs of our citizens. The long-term vitality of this sector of our economy relies on an educated and competent workforce. The Massachusetts Center for Agriculture supports agricultural economic development through applied research and educational programs that help individuals operate businesses and manage landscapes in ways that are economically sound and environmentally sustainable.

Click here for more information.

Youth Development

Massachusetts citizens are concerned about preparing youth for the challenges of the 21st century. Young people can only reach their full potential in environments that offer safety, caring adults, and authentic experiences. A statewide network of 1,600 4-H volunteers provide leadership training, like-skills development, recreation and community service opportunities for youth during out of school time that are engaging and educational. Longstanding clubs and camps are complemented by innovative program that respond to a national 4-H mandate for educational enrichment in science and technology.

Click here for more information.

Environmental Stewardship

There is a critical need to better understand current threats to water resources, biodiversity and ecosystem integrity. Land use policies that recognize the vulnerability of natural resources as well as our reliance upon them are also essential. The Center for Agriculture plays a critical role in the development and deployment of innovate approaches and tools that are based on our evolving understanding of ecological and human systems. Scientific investigations are closely interwoven with educational resources that advance disciplinary knowledge, inform policy decisions and promote management practices that protect terrestrial, wetland, aquatic and coastal ecosystems.

Click here for more information.