USDA SARE PROGRAM SUPPORT FOR 2013 GALAXY 4 AND NACAA PROFESSIONAL IMPROVEMENT CONFERENCE TOURS

Developing sustainable agricultural food systems which meet the food, fiber, and fuel needs of our society while maintaining healthy economies, enviroments, and communities will require land-grant university extension personnel who are trained to provide technical expertise in the areas of sustainable agriculture to farmers, businesses, and communities. Funding from theNational Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) Program will be used to support unique training opportunities and enhance traditional tours and workshops with a focus on sustainable agriculture at the 2013 National Association of County Agricultural Agents meeting in Pittsburgh, PA.Five day-long professional tours for Extension educators will be held on Monday, September 16, 2013 accomodating up to324 attendees. Tours will feature locally grown foods, organic waste management, water quality initiatives and horticultural production. These tours will also highlight the urban sustainable agriculture outreach that is available in Pittsburgh. Finally, extension educators will increase their awareness of professional opportunities in sustainable agriculture throughpresentations ofSARE-funded research projects and recognition of the SARE Fellows Program and the Sustainable Agriculture Search for Excellence Award. Educators will increase their knowledge about Sustainable Agriculture practices by visiting sustainable farms and businesses. In addition, educators will become aware of sustainable agriculture resources and develop contacts/networks to help them develop educational programs in their local communities.