2023-2027 Combined Research and Extension Plan of Work

Executive Summary

The College of Agricultural Sciences at Penn State will provide comprehensive support through the Pennsylvania Agricultural Experiment Station and Penn State Extension. The mission focuses on research, education, outreach, agricultural sustainability, resilience, regeneration, and support for food, agriculture, natural resources, and communities.

Overview

Agriculture faces challenges including energy costs, weather extremes, population growth, environmental degradation, labor shortages, conflict, and public health challenges. Penn State will address these through integrated research, extension, and education programs.

Critical Issue Additional Information

Advancing Agricultural and Food Systems; Building Community Resilience and Capacity; Developing Biologically Based Materials and Products; Fostering a Positive Future for Youth, Families, and Communities; Promoting Environmental Resilience; Supporting Integrated Health Solutions.

Merit and Scientific Peer Review Process

Extension and AES programs undergo internal and external peer review. State Program Teams, advisory groups, academic leaders, and stakeholders contribute to program evaluation and improvement.

Stakeholder Input

Actions to Seek Stakeholder Input

Listening sessions, surveys, focus groups, social media engagement, Extension evaluations, and stakeholder consultations are used to gather feedback.

Methods to Identify Individuals and Groups

Penn State Ag Council, the Latinx Agricultural Network, alumni, industry representatives, and community stakeholders help identify participants and advisory members.

Methods for Collecting Stakeholder Input

Meetings, surveys, focus groups, websites, field tours, social media, and industry visits are used to gather information and feedback.

How the Input Will Be Considered

Stakeholder input influences budgeting, emerging issue identification, extension and research priorities, hiring decisions, action plans, and program delivery methods.

Critical Issues

Advancing Agricultural and Food Systems

Focuses on sustainable and resilient crop and livestock production, resource optimization, agricultural technology, workforce development, and emerging market opportunities.

Building Community Resilience and Capacity

Addresses economic development, workforce growth, infrastructure, connectivity, health, and sustainability in rural communities.

Developing Biologically Based Materials and Products

Promotes bioenergy, biomaterials, agricultural waste utilization, commercialization, and value-added agricultural products.

Fostering a Positive Future for Youth, Families, and Communities

Addresses nutrition, youth mental health, chronic disease prevention, veterans support, digital literacy, career readiness, and family wellbeing.

Promoting Environmental Resilience

Focuses on air, water, and soil quality, biodiversity, forest health, ecosystem resilience, and sustainable resource management.

Supporting Integrated Health Solutions

Includes nutrition, food safety, human and animal health, disease prevention, biosecurity, and access to health services.

Report Status

Approved as of September 29, 2022. No comments submitted.