Research, teaching, and extended education programs need to be implemented with this in mind. Consumer-driven agenda Production and processing of food and fiber should be aligned with the needs, preferences and concerns of consumers. Systems approach The LGUs need to use a broad, systems approach to help solve problems in agriculture and natural resources. The LGU graduates are the human capital needed to sustain and improve the food and fiber system. Continuing to produce high quality baccalaureate and advanced degree graduates is critical to meeting the Issues to Action goals and objectives.
Agriculture is a complex system of producers and processors.
The 1996 Farm Bill greatly reduced federal involvement in commodity production. The LGUs must alter their programs to meet the new needs of farmers, including risk management and competitiveness in the world market. More support is needed to help decision-makers analyze policies that impact producers, consumers and the environment, both domestically and internationally. Environmental stewardship LGUs need greater involvement in assessing food and fiber production systems to ensure they provide a balance between economics, environmental impact and social acceptability. As the LGUs reorganize their areas of emphasis, more effort is needed in non-food agricultural enterprises.