The importance of plant genetic diversity is one topic tackled in the National Plant Breeding Study headed by Frey. One goal of the study has been to develop a national plan to enrich the gene pools for all U.S. crops. Gene-pool enrichment involves basic research on transferring useful genes from wild or undeveloped species into crops. Consequently, U.S. plant breeders are ill- prepared to develop crops to meet the country's future food, health, environmental and export demands. Frey recently issued a report outlining recommendations to improve gene-pool enrichment for U.S. crops.
Many workers hold two or more jobs to make ends meet.
In April and May, ISU Extension and the Northwest Area Foundation are sponsoring seven forums around the state to discuss the quality of jobs in rural Iowa. The meetings are part of a new project to help communities design strategies that result in high-quality jobs. Three Iowa communities will eventually be selected for a pilot program. The forums are free and open to the public. No pre-registration is required.