CEFS End-of-Year Letter 2021
Since its establishment in 1994, the Center for Environmental Farming Systems (CEFS) has been a pioneer in sustainable agricultural research, education, outreach, and a promoter of groundbreaking partnerships. It is through collaborations that we are able to tackle new challenges and work together to continually reach more ambitious goals. Support from institutions and our grassroots donors allow CEFS to address urgent crises such as climate change and food system inequalities, while inspiring our partners to find innovative solutions, together. The following are some important updates followed by information on how you can further support CEFS initiatives.
For over 25 years, CEFS has recognized the importance of agriculture and food systems to meet the challenges of our time. Today, more than ever, we need to build the foundations for a sustainable and resilient agricultural system that conserves natural resources while sustainably feeding our communities.
CEFS researchers are leading innovative research in sustainable agriculture, bringing together new partnerships in crop science, computer engineering, and machine learning across the nation. As part of the Precision Sustainable Agriculture (PSA) Network, CEFS faculty are interested in learning how sustainable farming practices, like cover crops, can capture and store water on farmers’ fields to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
Similarly, CEFS researchers are exploring the role agriculture can play in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The long-term Farming Systems Research Unit continues to provide a valuable field laboratory to assess sustainable production methods, soil health changes, and emissions of greenhouse gases. With almost 40% of the earth’s land in agriculture, we have an opportunity to fight climate change by studying how soils affect the atmosphere. This research is an important step in that direction.
Sustainably produced food can also help make our communities healthier. The Small Farm Unit is collaborating with partners to introduce new specialty fruits and vegetables to NC communities to enhance long-term health outcomes. Local, sustainable, and seasonal agriculture can catalyze changes in diet and health to benefit the most vulnerable people in our society, while supporting NC farmers and keeping our rural communities thriving.
When the pandemic magnified the deep inequities and challenges that affect our food system, it presented an opportunity to further strengthen our community partnerships. Many CEFS initiatives serve as conveners and connectors to help those most impacted by food system issues to come together to determine solutions. For example, more than 35 food councils now exist across 40 North Carolina counties with guidance and support from Community Food Strategies. The Farm to Early Care and Education Collaborative serves as a professional development hub that organizes and networks 15 community teams across North Carolina to connect food and early childhood systems. In response to challenges facing meat processors during the pandemic, NC Choices developed a network for meat processors to troubleshoot issues, share resources, and access essential funds. With increased processing capacity, consumers have more options to purchase local pasture-raised meat, including through NC Choices’ MeatSuite.com.
In 2021, CEFS launched a Farm to Senior Services project, grounded in a long history of learning from other CEFS initiatives focused on local food procurement, consumer engagement, racial equity, and network development. This project connects local teams across the state to increase availability of local foods for older adults.
Any solution to the challenges facing the agricultural sector must include leadership from populations historically excluded from such positions, including women, Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, and economically disadvantaged individuals. CEFS continues to inspire new agricultural and food system career pathways, with the goal of increasing the pool and diversity of trained new food system leaders through student internships, apprenticeships for community members, and graduate fellowships.
In 2021, we expanded this work through new programs and partnerships, including with food councils, community colleges and universities, food hubs, and Native American communities in Southeastern and Western North Carolina. Through these collaborations, CEFS is able to provide research, education, extension, and professional development opportunities to a diversity of students and community members, while offering critical support to
researchers and producers serving as mentors.
Your support helps us to continue to grow our work from the ground up. We hope that you will consider making an annual gift in support of CEFS. To make your gift today, please make your gift online at go.ncsu.edu/friendsofcefs. We appreciate your support!
Funds raised in support of the Friends of CEFS Fund are collected and managed by The North Carolina Agricultural Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)(3) organization (Tax ID# 56-6049304). You will receive an official receipt for your donation.
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| Jennifer Zuckerman Chair, CEFS Board of Advisors |
Dr. Michelle Shroeder-Moreno, Interim Co-Director, CEFS |
Dr. Chyi Lyi (Kathleen) Liang Co-Director, CEFS |