September 16, 2010 H Michael Harrington Executive Director WAAESD

Where are we Regional SARE programs have a strong records of success, but…. Focused on smaller production units Limited funding, more good ideas than resources Perceptions that the SARE program focuses solely on organic or small systems Many universities have developed centers, research sites, facilities and educational programs, but…. Is there innovative transformative work being done? Implementation/adoption of sustainable practices, but… Adoption is related to location in many cases.

Research Needs and Priorities Improve Agricultural Productivity by Sustainable Means: Water resources – quality and quantity Profitability - Economic Return to Agricultural Producers Productivity of Organic and Sustainable Agriculture systems Climate Energy Land Use Challenges New Plant Products, Uses, and Crop Production Systems New Animal Production Technologies, Practices, Products and Uses

Obstacles “We have met the enemy and they is us” – Pogo Reaching producers, facilitating adoption Loss of vitality/funding in LGUs Need for predictable funding streams Lack of funding for “big projects” Interdisciplinary teams that actually collaborate Lack of collaboration among universities Failure to reward team members in meaningful ways i.e. tenure, promotion and merit. University rush to protect IP

Where should we be heading Change the dialog for “agriculture” to “food production” Enhance funding for long term integrated projects Address challenges on large scale – aha`pu`aha Bring sustainable practices to large mainstream production units