Strategic Vision

Overview

National Program 212: Soil and Air

U.S. agricultural productivity over the past several decades has progressed enormously due to scientific discovery, technology development, and more efficient methods of agroecosystem management. Growing populations, dynamic economic conditions, and a desire to protect natural resources continue to pressure U.S. farmers and ranchers to increase production through management approaches that increase farm efficiency and profitability, preserve and enhance natural resources, and are resilient to abiotic and biotic shocks like extreme weather and pests and diseases. This daunting challenge depends on research to help develop the next generation of management approaches and innovations to create a foundation for long-term agricultural progress. Broadly, the goals of National Program (NP) 212: Soil and Air are to help farmers meet these challenges through research that develops practices and technologies to improve soil functions needed for enhanced crop production; optimize management of facilities, fertilizers, manures, agrochemicals, and byproducts for animal and crop production and natural resource protection; and develop options for more efficient and resilient farm production systems.

Projects in this Program. Click on a colored state to view research projects within the state.