The turnaround time is a week to 10 days for publications, and 2-4 weeks for research queries. More than 40 percent of the questions the program receives concern the reduction of agricultural chemicals used on field, fruit, and vegetable crops. Twenty-five percent are questions about raising animals, including animal feeds, health, and pasture management. Sustainable production techniques, crop diversification, and marketing are the other major areas of interest along with wildlife, water management, and the availability of equipment designed for sustainable agricultural practices. Yes, it's available in both paper form and electronically here on our website.
Most specialists hold advanced degrees in the agricultural sciences.
Many were raised on farms, and several staffers are part-time managers of farms and horticultral enterprises. Program specialists have experience in domestic and international agriculture, they've worked for non-profit sustainable agriculture organizations as well as the Cooperative Extension Service, and have worked in agricultural research, writing and teaching careers, as well as in the agribusiness sector. Sustainable agriculture is based on long-term goals of a farm operation, not a specific set of farming practices. Sustainable farming systems are usually environmentally sound, maintain agricultural productivity, and are economically viable. Practices may include reduction of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, but not necessarily the elimination of their use.