Apr 21, 2011Sustainable ag education loses funding
The U.S. government has long been in the business of supporting education for farmers. In 1914, Congress passed the Smith-Lever act, which formalized a system of agriculture education that is still ongoing. Known as cooperative extension, it was a partnership between the U.S Department of Agriculture and the land grant colleges. The partnership allowed the government to help those state universities get farmers the most up-to-date knowledge on the best agricultural practices in their area.
The extension system still exists today, although many grumble that it only serves large, conventional farmers. The farm bill of 1985 partially addressed that problem by creating a resource for smaller farmers looking to grow sustainably. Back then the program was called ATTRA, and although its name has changed to the National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service, most people still refer to it by its former acronym. High Country News
Read more of the story here.
Current Issue
Tech allows growers to ‘eavesdrop’ on insects
Southwest Florida’s Worden Farm manages challenges
Pennsylvania Vegetable Growers Association says farewell to leader
Southeast Regional Show recognizes leaders
Veg Connections: Biopesticides and beneficial insects
Business: Why do most succession plans fail?
60 years of advocating for agricultural employers
Keeping CSA members engaged and loyal
see all current issue »
