2024-2028 Combined Research and Extension Plan of Work

Executive Summary

Faculty of the College of Agricultural Sciences employ a collaborative interdisciplinary approach to address human health, food security, environmental protection, renewable energy, and community resilience through research and extension.

Overview

Penn State Agricultural Experiment Station and Penn State Extension support Pennsylvania residents through research, education, and outreach. The plan is built around intensification, resilience, and regeneration of agricultural landscapes.

Critical Issue Additional Information

Information is incorporated into the executive summary for all six critical issues.

Merit and Scientific Peer Review Process

AES and PSE programs undergo internal and external peer review using university panels, stakeholder groups, and multidisciplinary State Extension Teams.

Stakeholder Input

Stakeholder engagement is conducted through advisory groups, surveys, focus groups, social media, Extension evaluations, industry outreach, and community partnerships.

Actions to Seek Stakeholder Input

Listening sessions, surveys, targeted invitations, focus groups, and Extension feedback mechanisms encourage participation.

Methods to Identify Individuals and Groups

The Penn State Ag Council, Latinx Agricultural Network, alumni, Diversity Council, and industry organizations help identify stakeholders.

Methods for Collecting Stakeholder Input

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

How Input Will Be Considered

Stakeholder input informs budgeting, strategic priorities, hiring decisions, research programs, Extension programs, action plans, and program delivery methods.

Critical Issues

Advancing Agricultural and Food Systems

Focuses on crop and livestock innovation, resilience, resource efficiency, technology, workforce development, and market opportunities.

Building Community Resilience and Capacity

Supports rural economic growth, workforce development, infrastructure, health, and community sustainability.

Developing Biologically Based Materials and Products

Advances bioenergy, biomaterials, agricultural byproduct utilization, commercialization, and value-added products.

Fostering a Positive Future for Youth, Families, and Communities

Emphasizes youth development, nutrition, mental health, chronic disease prevention, veterans support, digital literacy, and family well-being.

Promoting Environmental Resilience

Addresses biodiversity, ecosystem services, environmental quality, invasive species, and sustainable resource management.

Supporting Integrated Health Solutions

Focuses on nutrition, food safety, human and livestock health, biosecurity, and healthcare access.

Report Status

Approved August 4, 2023. Review comments praised the plan's systems approach, stakeholder engagement, and alignment with USDA-NIFA priorities.