Sustainable Agriculture Programs

Center for Rural Affairs

Works to establish strong rural communities, social and economic justice, environmental stewardship, and genuine opportunity for all while engaging people in decisions that affect the quality of their lives and the future of their communities.

Iowa Network for Community Agriculture

Promotes relationships among people who are developing sustainable local food sources that are safe and healthy for people, all creatures, and the land.

Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture

A research and education center with programs throughout Iowa to develop sustainable agricultural practices that are both profitable and conserve natural resources. Its mission:
-to conduct research into the negative impacts of agricultural practices;
-to assist in developing alternative practices;
-to work with ISU Extension to inform the public of Leopold Center findings.

National Catholic Rural Life Conference

The National Catholic Rural Life Conference applies the teachings of Jesus Christ for the betterment of rural America and with respect for the care of God's creation. We provide spiritual, educational and advocacy assistance in our mission to help rural people shape their own destinies and lead lives of dignity.

Practical Farmers of Iowa

A non-profit, educational organization that began in 1985 and now has over 700 members in Iowa and neighboring states. Our mission is to research, develop and promote profitable, ecologically sound and community-enhancing approaches to agriculture. We carry out diverse programs to assist farmers with both production and marketing needs, to raise public awareness of where food comes from and how it is grown, and to educate youth about agriculture and the environment.

Sustainable Agriculture Extension Program

Supports sustainable agriculture in Iowa by:
-providing information about sustainable agriculture in Iowa,
-providing training in the philosophy and implementation of sustainable agriculture to Extension staff and other information providers,
-sponsoring programs on sustainable agriculture for farmers, agricultural professionals, and the public, and
-working with government, non-profit, and agriculture groups in the state and region on a variety of sustainable agriculture issues.

Women, Food & Agriculture Network

Mission Statement: "To link and amplify women's voices on issues of food systems, sustainable communities, and environmental integrity."