Scientists discovered that arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi supply nitrogen to plants through a newly identified protein, enabling crops like rice to thrive with reduced fertilizer use. The finding could lead to more sustainable agricultural practices and reduce environmental impact by minimizing agrochemical use.
The UT Agribusiness Academy aims to increase Tennessee secondary students' exposure to agribusiness content and career opportunities, bolstering curricular success. The grant-funded project will provide online modules and professional development components for 60 teachers over three summers.
Researchers found that producing animal-sourced foods consumes over 80% of the Earth's agricultural acreage, leading to widespread deforestation and climate change. Shifting to land-friendly diets could regrow native vegetation capable of absorbing CO2, reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide levels.
Researchers have published the most comprehensive genome information for three troublesome agricultural weeds, which could lead to better understanding of herbicide resistance. The genomes will help identify specific enzymes responsible for detoxifying herbicides, enabling scientists to develop new control methods.
The University of Illinois will lead two of seven new national artificial intelligence institutes, one focusing on agricultural resilience and the other on molecular discovery. The institutes aim to advance AI research in computer vision, machine learning, and automation to address major agricultural challenges.
Soil loss due to water runoff is projected to increase significantly by 2070, with potential losses of over 28 billion metric tons annually. Sustainable land cultivation practices can mitigate this threat and ensure food security for the world's population.
A unique study reveals that EU agricultural subsidies flow to intensively farmed regions causing environmental damage, while poorer regions are underfunded. The Common Agricultural Policy's €54 billion annual budget is concentrated in the hands of only 20% of farmers.
Using local producer knowledge helps estimate groundwater use in modelling for mapping sustainable use of scarce resources. Farmers' land use, agricultural practices and water use are key factors in this approach.
A new study from the University of Illinois reveals a significant decline in US bird biodiversity related to neonicotinoid use, particularly affecting grassland birds. The research found a 2.2% decline in grassland bird populations for every 100 kg increase in neonicotinoid usage per county.
Researchers employed a gendered ecosystem services approach with Lozi communities to identify locally relevant strategies for sustainable agricultural development. The study found that agroecological intensification, such as multiple cropping and agroforestry, can restore and maintain ecosystem services in cultivated lands while reduci...
Researchers find that a combination of subsidies, weather experience, and financial literacy leads to long-term insurance uptake. Subsidies alone have limited effect without financial education and actual payout experience.
Researchers Rebecca Lybrand and her team studied the interaction between ground-nesting bees and soils in agricultural settings. They found that active nesting sites were present in locations with little to no rock cover and low vegetation, which may provide a suitable habitat for these pollinators.
Researchers argue that one-sided narratives shape the dichotomy between state-led and market-led approaches to promote agricultural development. A combination of state-led initiatives, donor-funded or market-led approaches, and input subsidy programs can work if there is evidence-based policy learning between both camps.
A study in Peru found that shifting from subsistence farming to commercial agriculture is associated with less diverse diets and reduced access to food among local communities. The expansion of cash crops like palm oil and cocoa has led to simplified production systems and decreased agricultural biodiversity.
A study found that Conservation Agriculture can increase organic carbon in soil by up to three times the goal amount, making it a key tool for mitigating climate change. By adopting no-till farming and rotating crops, farmers can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve environmental sustainability.
A study by Dr. Jiangen Zhou et al. found that fish farming significantly changes microbial communities and decreases nitrogen levels, offering a potential solution to reduce nitrate pollution in ponds.
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have discovered a new plant gene, CLE53, that regulates cooperation between fungi and plants. The gene helps plants absorb phosphorus more effectively, reducing fertiliser use and increasing agricultural efficiency.
Researchers analyzed agricultural systems using multiomics approach and found that organic nitrogen fuels plant growth. They also discovered differences in bacteria in the rhizosphere, which make nitrogen available to plants.
The University of Tennessee is one of 26 institutions to receive a REEU grant, focusing on integrated pest management. Nineteen students have been selected for the internship program, which will provide training in modern agricultural technology, communication and leadership skills.
Researchers developed a two-region soil-gas diffusivity model to characterize aggregated agricultural soils. The model accurately estimates gas diffusion and provides insights into greenhouse gas emissions.
Scientists at Northern Arizona University are studying the impact of microbial communities in soil on agricultural crops to increase yield and efficiency. The team found that traditional approaches to crop rotation may not be effective, but advances in microbiome science can help optimize agricultural systems.
A University of Illinois study finds climate-smart agricultural practices increase maize yields, particularly when farmers have access to training and resources. The practices, such as absorption trenches and agroforestry fertilizer trees, help conserve water and soil nutrients.
A new study predicts that US agricultural workers will experience double the number of unsafe days due to extreme heat by 2050, with health risks tripling. The research suggests that adapting working conditions, such as using lighter protective clothing and taking breaks, can mitigate these risks.
A recent study by the University of Göttingen suggests that new plant breeding technologies, such as genetic engineering and gene editing, can help increase food production whilst being more environmentally friendly. This approach has been evaluated over 50 years of research from around the world.
A recent study by UConn researchers found that mismanagement and inadequate infrastructure are the root causes of supply problems for Ugandan farmers. The study revealed discrepancies in the quality of agricultural supplies like seeds and fertilizers due to improper handling, not adulteration.
EU Common Agricultural Policy is set to be revised, with over 3,600 researchers urging that scientific data be taken into consideration. The position paper proposes ten measures to improve the policy, including adequate funds for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and effective protection of natural habitats.
Researchers developed a process to recover 80-90% of phosphorus from dried distiller's grains with solubles (DDGS), reducing excess phosphorus in manure and minimizing algae production. The process is estimated to add $1 million annually in revenue for ethanol plants, while improving environmental sustainability.
A new study from UC Davis finds significant disparities between employers' and employees' approaches to wildfire smoke concerns. Many farmworkers prioritize work over safety, while some employers lack clear plans or protocols for managing air quality.
A new study models the potential for growing major food crops in newly suitable regions due to climate change. The researchers found that Earth's agricultural landmass could increase by one-third, including vast new farming prospects in Canada and Russia's north.
A new study predicts the Len Small levee will continue to fail even if repaired due to erosion and increased precipitation. The levee's failure has caused severe damage to homes and businesses, and agricultural land degradation.
The Everglades Agricultural Area is experiencing significant soil subsidence due to climate change, threatening the region's ecosystem and agricultural economy. Researchers recommend practices such as crop rotation with rice and adding plant material back into the soil to mitigate decomposition and increase soil carbon.
A new paper demonstrates that digital extension practices are adopted at rates comparable to traditional in-person extension, with significantly lower costs. The study highlights the research utility of digital extension and its potential for improvement through iteration and testing.
The researchers highlight the urgent need for investment in research infrastructure to provide reliable data on population health, nutrition, and agricultural practices. An international body is proposed to address pressing nutritional and agricultural issues and prepare policy decisions.
Researchers propose transforming low-productivity agricultural land into conservation reserves, which could help nations meet their United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The approach recognizes the value of uncontested lands, allowing for quicker and cheaper conservation efforts than traditional methods.
A group of scientists from the Science for Nature and People Partnership (SNAPP) urge policymakers to take action on soil carbon despite ongoing debates. They highlight the importance of rebuilding soil carbon for environmental and agricultural benefits, such as sustainable agriculture systems and water quality.
Researchers used site-specific watershed data to determine the most cost-effective agricultural best management practices for a watershed. By applying customized BMPs tailored for the specific watershed, farmers could reduce sediment and nutrient loss by 26% less money.
A new study finds that increasing solar and wind energy in California can enhance drought resilience and benefit groundwater sustainability. The researchers developed a trade-off frontier framework to quantify the water sustainability value of solar and wind energy.
A new study from University of Illinois researchers used computer modeling to estimate how land management practices may be affected by climate changes. The study found that redistribution of land uses and certain management practices can help reduce nitrogen loss without changing fertilizer application rates.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) addresses the right to food by providing targeted assistance to low-income households and expanding automatically in response to changes in need. SNAP achieves a right to food through its entitlement program, access to food nationwide, and respect for participants' dignity and autonomy.
Researchers will explore ways to use renewable energy to increase usable water resources and produce ammonia for fertilizer. The project aims to create a multifaceted economic system sustaining small town and rural communities and maintaining agricultural production.
The US Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service has published the first genome of the invasive Spotted Lanternfly, obtained from a single caught-in-the-wild specimen. The genome sequencing was made possible by Pacific Biosciences' new platform that produces 10 times more data from a single run.
A study involving over 100 researchers demonstrates that biodiversity enhances pollination and biological pest control, leading to increased crop yields. Higher agricultural biodiversity also reduces the reliance on pesticides, promoting sustainable agriculture.
A team of Cornell University researchers will investigate the interrelationships between food, energy and water through a three-year, $2.4 million grant. The study aims to understand how ag-to-energy land-use conversions affect agricultural production, water quality and quantity, as well as electrical grid operational efficiency.
Researchers evaluated the accuracy of a commonly used numerical model in hydrology, finding that its results can be difficult to interpret correctly even when properly calibrated. The study recommends using a combination model called SWATmf to improve representation of hydrologic systems.
A new study investigates how wild pig invasions are dependent on the availability of crops and non-agricultural food sources. The researchers found that pigs eat and damage agriculture more when it is highly available, but this behavior lessens when non-agricultural food sources are also highly available.
A new study from Iowa State University highlights the need to update agricultural drainage infrastructure, which can benefit crop production and the environment. The research recommends installing higher capacity pipes and implementing long-term conservation practices, such as denitrification wetlands, bioreactors, and saturated buffers.
Maps identifying suitable areas for the spotted lanternfly's establishment in the US and world have been published by Agricultural Research Service scientists. The insect has already spread to several countries and is predicted to become established in most of New England, mid-Atlantic states, and Pacific coastal states.
The BESTMAP project aims to develop a new flexible and interoperable framework to monitor EU policy impacts on natural, social, and cultural assets in rural areas. Computer models will help build an operational framework to analyze the adoption of agri-environmental schemes.
Historical phosphorus sources contribute to persistent nutrient pollution in rivers, masking efforts to improve surface water quality. The study highlights the need for long-term accounting of total historical phosphorus storage and reductions in contemporary surpluses.
Scientists Zach Lippman and Yuval Eshed review past agricultural revolutions, highlighting key genetic mutations and modifications. They propose using CRISPR gene editing to introduce new variations in core hormonal systems, potentially boosting crop productivity and adaptability.
Researchers propose targeted government support and food programs to address nutrition gaps, reducing environmental impacts compared to increased agricultural production. Eradicating hunger by 2030 requires only a marginal increase in overall agricultural production, with potential benefits for environmental sustainability.
The ASU/MCC project aims to develop an experiential learning course, fund master's-level students, and engage the community in addressing challenges at the urban-agriculture nexus. Students will conduct research on topics such as urban agriculture production systems and food safety.
Research using stable isotopes shows that some mammals thrive on agricultural products in modified landscapes, while others rely on forest resources. Habitat loss from agriculture may pose conservation challenges, highlighting the need for sustainable land-use practices.
Researchers review environmental conditions leading to harmful algal blooms in rivers, lakes, and coastal oceans, highlighting the impact of agricultural, urban, and industrial activities on water quality and biological resources.
A new book from IFPRI researchers reveals that urbanization has spurred growth in nonfarm jobs but little impact on agricultural intensification, with stagnated growth in the non-cocoa sector. Raising land productivity is key to transforming the national economy and ensuring future growth.
A study warns that large areas of tropics could vanish within 80 years if global dietary habits don't change, leading to widespread species loss. Replacing animal products with plant-based alternatives can reduce agricultural land use by 11%.
Agricultural lands are the most productive places for solar power, according to an Oregon State University study. The researchers found that converting less than 1% of land to solar panels would be sufficient to fulfill global electric energy demand.
Researchers analyze EU Commission's Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) reform proposals and find they do not reflect public demand for sustainable agriculture or environmental goals. The CAP has the potential to support multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals but currently only contributes to two of them.
Researchers at KIST developed an eco-friendly nanocomposite catalyst made from agricultural byproducts to effectively remove environmental hormones from sewage and wastewater. The catalyst achieved a high removal rate of over 95% in less than one hour, outperforming existing methods.
Michigan State University has received a $38 million USAID grant to implement a new Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Food Security Policy Research, Capacity and Influence. The lab will partner with local agricultural policy research organizations to strengthen their ability to carry out rigorous research on food security policy.