NIFA Listens: Investing in Science to Transform Lives Stakeholder input on the emerging needs and opportunities in food and agricultural sciences. Opportunity to provide feedback on these questions: “In your field, what is the most-needed breakthrough in science/technology that would advance your agricultural enterprise?” “When considering all of agriculture, what is the greatest challenge that should be addressed through NIFA’s research, education, and extension programs?” “What is your top priority in food and agricultural research, extension, or education that NIFA should address?”

2018 Listening Sessions Bond Ballroom, Hartford, Connecticut (October 11) Four Points by Sheraton French Quarter, New Orleans, Louisiana (October 18) Graduate Minneapolis, Minneapolis, Minnesota (October 25) Crowne Plaza, Albuquerque, New Mexico (November 1) Submission of written comments accepted through November 30

Potential 2018 ESCOP Strategy Identify EDs or AES directors to participate in each regional listening session, including written testimonies of regional importance ESCOP message should include the partnership with NIFA and the value of 2-way collaboration and trust Prepare joint ECOP/ESCOP written testimony Identify national topics of importance to ESCOP

ESCOP Grand Challenge Documents: Sustainability, competitiveness, and profitability of U.S. food and agricultural systems Adapt to and mitigate the impacts of climate change on food, feed, fiber, and fuel systems Support energy security and the development of the bioeconomy from renewable natural resources Work to ensure a safe, secure and abundant food supply Improve human health, nutrition and wellness Heighten environmental stewardship through the development of sustainable management practices Strengthen individual, family and community development and resilience.