Economics is an extraordinarily important part of the equation if we are to fulfill our mandate of conducting science in the public interest. If we do not consider the cost to the farmer of proposed waste management techniques, we are not doing our job. Yet we must also consider the effect of the waste management methods on the environment, because the environmental and economic aspects of agriculture have always been inextricably intertwined. Farmers were the original stewards of the land, and as they adopt new agricultural practices they need to ensure the environmental quality upon which they depend. Likewise, consumers need a clean environment, and they also rely on our countrys abundant, safe, inexpensive food supply and benefit from the dollars that agriculture brings into the states economy.
Agribusiness is, after all, North Carolinas number one industry.
Food, fiber and forestry account for more than one-fifth of the states income and employees. The effort within N.C. States College of Agriculture and Life Sciences to address these concerns is unparalleled by any other institution. We are a national leader in waste management research. Through our Animal and Poultry Waste Management Center, scientists from various disciplines are developing and evaluating waste treatment technologies that will protect air, soil and water quality and support our states important animal agriculture industry. Were also working with researchers from other universities, the U.S. Department of Agricultures Agricultural Research Service and the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to develop more effective methods of dealing with the wastes generated by animal agriculture.