Mission:
The mission of the Dale Bumpers Small Farms Research Center is to develop scientific principles and technologies to enhance the profitability and sustainability of small-scale farms. Research at the Center is focused on increasing profitability of small farms by reducing inputs and capturing a greater proportion of the post-farm value. The Location conducts research to develop innovative strategies and technologies for: reducing parasite load and enhancing genetics of small ruminants; developing foraging strategies for livestock, including organic production systems; integration of agroforestry systems and sustainable manure management practices. A multi-disciplinary team of 4 ARS scientists, in cooperation with federal, state, and private organizations, pursue a program of basic and applied research that addresses constraints to successful sustainable livestock-forage and agroforestry systems. Acquired knowledge and technology is transferred to the agricultural community through the efforts of ARS scientists and their cooperators.