Fresh faces on USDA science advisory board

May 17, 2024

By Farms.com

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently announced new members of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, Education, and Economics (NAREEE) Advisory Board. This board plays a key role in shaping research priorities for the food and agricultural sectors.

The NAREEE Board welcomes a range of expertise. New appointees include Dr. Jane Schuchardt, an organic farmer, and Mr. Edwin Kitzes, Land Grant Director at the United Tribes Technical College. Reappointed members include Dr. Mario Ferruzzi, a professor at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, and Dr. Ellen Harris, a former executive director of Food First.

"These experts offer valuable insights," said Dr. Chavonda Jacobs-Young, the USDA's Chief Scientist. Their diverse perspectives will guide research that strengthens our food system and ensures its benefits reach everyone.

NAREE Board committees delve deeper into specific research areas. New committee members include Dr. William Lytle, CEO of Evergreen International Sustainability Solutions, and Dr. Margaret Smith, a professor at Cornell University.

The USDA looks forward to working with these new advisors. Their combined knowledge will be instrumental in setting research directions that promote a more secure and equitable food system for all.

Video: Farm Health Guardian | Digital Biosecurity in Real Time

Disease risk, biosecurity, and real-time monitoring continue to be major topics across the pork industry. In this episode of Swine Web Industry Perspectives, presented by Farm Health Guardian, we discuss how digital biosecurity and real-time data are changing the way producers think about herd protection, people movement, and operational decision-making.

The conversation explores:

disease risk in modern pork production,

the impact of people movement on biosecurity,

the importance of real-time monitoring,

digital biosecurity technology,

and how Farm Health Guardian developed tools designed to support modern swine operations.

As the industry continues focusing on prevention, preparedness, and operational efficiency, connected technologies and actionable data are becoming increasingly important parts of modern herd health management.