Agriculture plays a fundamental role in society, providing the food, fiber, and resources necessary to sustain daily life and drive economic activity. It supports communities, fuels industries, and provides a foundation for national and global economies. Crop and soil science, focuses on a wide range of crops which serve as a primary source of food and raw materials for countless products (such as cotton, corn, soybeans, etc.) By focusing on identifying the critical issues facing crop production it is possible to focus efforts within the domain and improve efficiency and sustainability. Such efforts are crucial not only for meeting current demands but also for securing the future of our food and fiber industries. This post shares the findings from a study I conducted with several amazing colleagues. Key Findings: Using a three round Delphi process a panel of experts identified 47 critical issues facing industries related to crop and soil sciences. The issues were then analyzed using the constant comparative method, resulting in 8 primary themes (listed alphabetically): Chemical Usage:  Addressing the responsible and sustainable use of herbicides, pesticides, and fertilizers to minimize environmental and health impacts. Climate and Environmental Factors:  Focusing on adapting agricultural practices to mitigate and respond to climate variability while protecting ecosystems. Current and Future Workforce Training:  Preparing a skilled workforce equipped with the knowledge and skills needed for modern agricultural challenges. Economic Sustainability:  Ensuring financial viability and profitability in agricultural practices to support long-term growth and stability. Public Understanding of Production Practices:  Enhancing consumer awareness and understanding of agricultural processes and their impacts. Research and Collaboration:  Fostering interdisciplinary research and partnerships to drive innovation and share knowledge across the sector. Seed and Food Quality Control:  Maintaining high standards of quality and safety in seed production and food processing to protect consumer health. Soil Health and Water Usage:  Promoting practices that improve soil quality and optimize water resources for sustainable agricultural productivity. Challenges and Opportunities: Promoting Interdisciplinary Solutions:  The complexity of these challenges will require collaboration across disciplines to innovate and implement effective strategies. Enhancing Public Engagement:  Improving public understanding of agricultural practices is crucial for fostering informed decision-making and sustainable behaviors. Advancing Research and Collaboration:  Prioritizing research and building collaborative networks can address knowledge gaps and strengthen our ability to tackle critical issues, particularly in areas like soil health and climate resilience. This research provides a high level overview of the critical issues facing crop production in agriculture and the food system. By focusing efforts on critical areas such as soil health, climate impacts, and interdisciplinary research, we can more effectively mobilize resources and expertise to meet the challenges of feeding a growing global population while ensuring environmental sustainability. This strategic focus is essential for developing a consistent and coherent vision and understanding amongst agricultural and food system leaders and ensuring the long-term viability of crop production. Please be sure to share your thoughts using the comments below. I've also included the full manuscript if you would like to learn more. Lamm, K. W., Randall, N. L., & Sherrier, D. J. (2021). Agriculture leaders identify critical issues facing crop production. Agronomy Journal, 113 (6), 4444-4454. https://doi.org/10.1002/agj2.20835

In agriculture and food systems, developing strong leaders is essential. Mentoring plays a key role in this development, providing guidance and support to emerging leaders. Within programs like LEAD21 , it's crucial to understand how mentor-mentee relationships work, whether they start from existing relationships or are formed from scratch. Each type of relationship brings unique benefits that help shape participants into capable leaders who can handle the challenges and innovations needed in the food system and higher education today. The following are a set of findings from a study I conducted with several amazing colleagues looking at the mentoring experience in an adult leadership development program. Key Insights from Mentoring in Adult Agricultural Leadership Development Programs: Nature of Mentor/Mentee Relationships:  Relationships can be pre-existing or formed from scratch within the context of the program. Each type brings different dynamics and opportunities for growth. Interaction Processes:  Mentors interact with mentees through both formal and informal processes, with informal interactions often leading to more personalized and adaptable learning experiences. Roles of Mentors:  Mentors view their roles variably; some see themselves as guides aimed at achieving specific career outcomes for mentees, while others adopt a more exploratory and personal development-focused approach. Challenges and Opportunities: Clarifying Expectations:  Both mentors and mentees benefit from clear expectations and structured guidelines, which help in maximizing the mentoring relationship's effectiveness. Program Support and Resources:  Providing mentors with ongoing support and resources, including updates on program curriculum and participant progress, can enhance the mentoring process. Building Networks:  Encouraging the formation of broader mentorship networks can enrich the leadership development program experience, providing both mentors and mentees with valuable professional connections and support. Mentoring within a leadership development program conceptual framework Mentoring within agricultural leadership development programs offers a complex but important opportunity for developing the next generation of leaders. By analyzing, iterating, and improving the mentorship process—through better understanding of relationship dynamics, structured support, and extended networking opportunities—we can improve the impact of these programs. Effective mentoring not only develops individual capabilities but also strengthens the entire agricultural and food system by developing leaders equipped to face future challenges. Please be sure to share your thoughts in the comments below. I've included the full article if you would like to learn more. Lamm, K. W., Sapp, L. R., & Lamm, A. J. (2017). The mentoring experience: leadership development program perspectives. Journal of Agricultural Education , 58 (2) , 20-34.   https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2017.02020

In the increasingly complex world of agriculture and food systems, the call for an interdisciplinary approach to education is important. As we face the challenges of feeding a growing global population and implementing sustainable agricultural practices, it clear that tackling these issues requires a blend of knowledge from diverse fields. This educational strategy not only equips students with a comprehensive skill set but also prepares them to lead across disciplinary boundaries. This blog summarizes research I conducted with several other amazing colleagues analyzing this important topic. By integrating various academic disciplines, we develop future leaders who are ready to solve the complex problems of today and tomorrow. This is not just an educational shift, it reflects the need for flexible, nimble, lifetime learners ready to address critical issues. Key Insights from Interdisciplinary Education Research: Learning Goal Orientation:  Students who are intrinsically motivated to learn tend to show more interest in interdisciplinary programs. This aligns with findings that suggest a strong foundation in goal orientation significantly influences educational pursuits. Program Design and Implementation:  Understanding students' goal orientations can greatly aid educators in tailoring programs that better meet diverse educational needs, enhancing both engagement and effectiveness. Student Interests in Agricultural Topics:  Current interest trends among students include high engagement with issues like nutrition and human disease management, less so with economic and plant disease management. These preferences provide valuable direction for curriculum development. Challenges and Opportunities: Curriculum Development:  There is an opportunity to develop instructional materials that align more closely with student interests, potentially increasing engagement and the effectiveness of learning. Tailored Educational Paths:  Educators might consider less structured courses that emphasize personal development and practical application over traditional grading to attract students who are more interested in learning for its own sake. Early Introduction and Broad Inclusion:  Introducing interdisciplinary education early in the educational journey could open students to a broader range of career paths and increase engagement among those not already directed towards specific professional goals. This research indicates a critical shift towards interdisciplinary education within our agricultural and food systems programs, highlighting a need to adapt our educational frameworks to the complexities of critical issues around the globe. By integrating various academic disciplines, we can better prepare our students to tackle the pressing issues of sustainability and food security. This approach not only enhances the educational journey, it also equips our future workforce to drive meaningful change across industries and communities. As educators, it's our responsibility to cultivate an environment that fosters broad thinking and innovation, ensuring that our graduates are not only prepared for the challenges of today but are also well-equipped to lead and solve the problems of tomorrow. Please be sure to share your insights using the comments below. I've also included the original article if you would like to learn more. DiBenedetto, C. A., Lamm, K. W., Lamm, A. J., & Myers, B. E. (2016). Examining undergraduate student attitude towards interdisciplinary education . Journal of Agricultural Education , 57 (1), 167-178. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2016.01167

As the global population climbs towards 9 billion by 2050, the pressure on our agricultural systems to produce more food becomes increasingly critical. At the same time, the agricultural sector is experiencing a decline in its workforce, with fewer individuals choosing farming as a career path. In this landscape effective leadership within agriculture and food systems is more crucial than ever. It’s not just about producing more; it’s about innovating and managing resources appropriately and sustainably. Leadership programs within Cooperative Extension Services (CES) play an important role, tackling these challenges by developing the next generation of leaders in agriculture and the food system. The following are results from a study I conducted with several amazing colleagues evaluating the perception of Agricultural Leadership Development Program (ANR LDP) alumni. Key Insights Leadership Engagement:  Participants reported taking on multiple leadership roles post-program completion, demonstrating the effectiveness of ANR LDPs in cultivating agricultural leaders who are ready to innovate and guide the sector. High Levels of Satisfaction:  The overwhelming majority of participants expressed satisfaction with their program experiences, indicating that the learning environments are highly conducive to engagement and educational success. Impact on Professional Growth:  Many graduates have translated their learning into real-world applications, significantly influencing agricultural practices and policies through their leadership roles. Need for Enhanced Leadership Training:  While a significant number of participants transition into leadership positions, there remains a gap in training that could help even more individuals step up as leaders, suggesting a need for curriculum enhancements that focus specifically on leadership skills and barriers to leadership engagement. Next Steps Longitudinal Tracking and Impact Measurement:  Effective tracking of graduates' long-term career paths and leadership roles is essential for assessing the true impact of ANR LDPs. Developing robust methods for longitudinal studies could provide clearer insights into the program's success and areas for improvement. Adapting to Emerging Agricultural Challenges:  As global agricultural demands shift due to climate impacts and technological advancements, leadership programs must evolve to equip leaders with the necessary skills to navigate these complex issues. Strengthening Program Accessibility and Reach:  Expanding the reach of leadership programs to include a broader array of participants from different geographies and backgrounds can enrich learning experiences and prepare the workforce to address the agricultural challenges of the future. Integrating Modern Technologies:  There's a growing necessity to incorporate advanced technologies and data-driven decision-making into leadership curricula. By teaching upcoming leaders to leverage innovations such as precision agriculture, AI, and sustainable practices, programs can ensure that graduates are prepared to lead in a technologically advanced agricultural landscape. The results of this study underscore the critical role that Agricultural Leadership Development Programs (ANR LDPs) play in shaping the future of agriculture and the food system by preparing leaders who are equipped to address the critical issues facing the industry. By enhancing leadership training, incorporating modern technologies into the curriculum, and improving methods for tracking and assessing long-term impacts, these programs can continue to improve their effectiveness. Additionally, adapting curricula to better tackle contemporary agricultural challenges such as technological advancements will ensure that future leaders are well-prepared. These enhancements will not only meet the current needs of the agricultural industry but will also set a robust foundation for sustainable and effective leadership. I've included the full article below if you would like to learn more. Please be sure to share your insights using the comments. Lamm, K. W., Carter, H. S., & Lamm, A. J. (2016). Evaluating extension based leadership development programs in the Southern United States . Journal of Agricultural Education , 57 (1), 121-136. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2016.01121

As we navigate the challenges of a rapidly growing global population and a changing food system, the importance of nurturing a future workforce that can think critically and systemically has never been more important. Systems thinking offers a powerful lens through which students in agricultural and natural resource fields can not only understand but also innovate within the complex global food system. This skill is essential for developing solutions that balance human needs with environmental sustainability, enabling us to tackle some of the most pressing issues facing our planet today. I'm excited to share research from an amazing team I worked with on this important topic. Understanding the Intersection of Systems Thinking and Green Consumption Values: High Engagement with Systems Thinking: Most respondents indicated that they engage in systems thinking, particularly in understanding event sequences and the dynamic nature of systems, which reflects Gen Z’s inclination towards innovation. Moderate Alignment with Green Consumption Values: While students recognize the importance of not harming the environment, their actual purchasing behaviors show less alignment with green values, likely influenced by financial constraints typical of college life. Correlation Between Systems Thinking and Green Values: The study found a mild association between systems thinking and green consumption values, suggesting a nuanced relationship that warrants deeper exploration. Challenges and Future Directions: Enhancing Educational Approaches: There is a need to adapt educational strategies to better integrate systems thinking and green consumption, potentially through experiential learning that mirrors real-world complexities. Addressing Financial Constraints: Recognizing the financial limitations of students, it's suggested that practical applications of green values be incorporated into learning, making sustainability more accessible regardless of economic status. Expanding Research and Understanding: Further studies should continue to work with to better understand the relationships between student backgrounds and how these influence systems thinking and sustainability values. This research underscores the importance of cultivating systems thinking among students, particularly in fields related to agriculture and environmental sciences. By aligning educational outcomes with the principles of sustainability and systems thinking, we can better prepare students to tackle the complex issues facing our global food systems. The integration of these competencies is not just beneficial for individual career readiness but for the food system as well. I've included the full manuscript below if you would like to learn more. Please share your insights using the comments.

In higher education, especially in fields like agricultural leadership, it's crucial to use motivational strategies effectively to boost learner engagement. In this blog post I'm excited to share findings from a study I conducted with several amazing colleagues with a group of agricultural leadership students. Our results demonstrate how important intrinsic motivation is for enhancing both individual and team satisfaction in project-based learning. This study highlights the need for educational experiences that actively support and foster motivation, significantly improving learning outcomes. It suggests that by creating more motivating and supportive learning environments, we can make education both more effective and more enjoyable. Key Findings from the Study: Intrinsic Motivation and Team Satisfaction: Students exhibited high intrinsic motivation (average score of 4.30) for their selected projects. Project team satisfaction was slightly lower (average score of 5.66), with substantial variability among students. A strong, significant correlation (r = .70) was observed between intrinsic motivation and team satisfaction. Impact of Demographic Variables: No significant differences in intrinsic motivation or team satisfaction based on age, gender, ethnicity, or race were found. Intrinsic motivation was identified as a significant positive predictor of team satisfaction, independent of demographic factors. Recommendations for Enhancing Team Satisfaction: Emphasize project-based learning in agricultural education to foster both interpersonal and management skills. Address potential challenges such as social loafing and negative group behavior by focusing on intrinsic motivations connected to the work, rather than solely on team importance. The study’s findings underscore the role of intrinsic motivation in enhancing team dynamics and overall project satisfaction among undergraduate agricultural students. Educators are encouraged to appeal to students' intrinsic interests and ensure that projects are meaningful to them, thereby potentially improving both satisfaction and educational outcomes. As the agricultural and educational sector evolves, incorporating motivational strategies that foster genuine engagement and skill development becomes increasingly important for preparing students for the future. Please be sure to share your thoughts using the comments below. I've also included the full manuscript if you would like to learn more. Lamm, K. W., Carter, H. S., & Melendez, M. W. (2014). Investigating the linkage between intrinsic motivation and project team satisfaction in undergraduate agricultural leadership students. Journal of Agricultural Education, 55(3), 103-115. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2014.03103

Georgia, with its varied landscape ranging from the Appalachian Mountains to the coastal plains, presents unique challenges and opportunities that require specifically tailored local solutions. As such, collecting and applying locally relevant data to address critical issues is paramount. As a follow up to the May 15 blog post where I shared the results of a study we conducted to identify critical issues facing the state of Georgia, in the blog post this week we analyzed the issues based on county level perceptions - as well as geographic groupings. The results provide insights into pressing concerns in areas like youth and family development, civic engagement, agriculture, nutrition, and water management, underscoring the necessity of region-specific interventions. Key Themes and Critical Issue Areas: Youth and Family Development: Ranked as the top concern, particularly in rural and distressed counties. Calls for enhanced visibility and accessibility of existing programs like 4-H and family development initiatives. Recommendations include adjusting programs to better meet local needs and increasing outreach efforts. Civic Engagement and Community Development: Despite low overall concern, some areas like the Upper Coastal Plain showed significant interest. Lack of community development personnel within the local extension service highlights a gap in addressing this issue. Suggestions include conducting needs assessments and potentially developing a dedicated community development programming domain. Agriculture and Economic Development: Important in regions like the Blue Ridge Mountains, where there is a high perception of its significance. The focus is on reskilling workers and leveraging natural resources for sustainable economic plans. Nutrition Education and Food Availability: Surprisingly low concern despite relatively high rates of obesity and poor nutrition habits according to the CDC. Extension services are advised to reevaluate public perceptions and enhance the effectiveness of programs like SNAP-Ed. Water Management: Perceived as less critical, possibly due to existing conservation efforts. Continued education on water conservation and its regional impacts recommended. This research reflects the diverse perspectives across Georgia's different geographic regions, offering a clear directive for localized program adjustments and resource allocation. By understanding the specific needs and critical area concerns of various communities, Georgia can better target its developmental efforts, ensuring that interventions are both effective and relevant. This approach not only fosters community engagement but also enhances the overall resilience and sustainability of the state’s development strategies. I've included the full manuscript below if you would like to learn more. Please be sure to share your thoughts in the comments. Schmidt, A., Lamm, K. W., Borron, A., & Lamm, A. J. (2024). Examining the relationship between geographic groupings and perspective of critical community issues: An audience segmentation analysis. Land, 13(5), 1-20. https://doi.org/10.3390/land13050681

Georgia, known for its diverse landscapes from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the expansive agricultural plains, faces a variety of critical issues that require targeted developmental efforts. Recognizing these challenges, I was fortunate to work with a team of researchers to use the Delphi technique and thematic analysis to gain insights into the most pressing concerns among Georgia residents. The process, engaging with extension professionals, has categorized critical issues into five key themes, establishing the groundwork for strategic action and informed decision-making. Major Themes and Critical Issues: Investment in Youth and Adults: Strengthening education and workforce preparation is vital. Leadership development programs are essential to harness potential within the youth. Vocational programs must align more closely with market demands to re-skill and empower the workforce. Agricultural and Rural Economic Development: Agriculture remains a cornerstone of Georgia’s economy, necessitating support and innovation. Enhancements in agricultural technology and practices can boost economic development. Vocational training tailored to rural needs can bridge economic disparities. Agriculture and Food Safety Information: Public trust in agricultural information is crucial and currently needs bolstering. Enhancing awareness of agricultural innovations can drive sustainability and safety. Networks based on trust and shared values are needed to improve communication and practices. Resource Access and Availability: Issues of water usage and food insecurity are significant. Sustainable management of natural resources is crucial for long-term viability. Policies must be crafted to ensure equitable resource distribution and access. Social and Personal Economic Concerns: Financial literacy and social leadership are foundational for economic stability. The growing demographic of older adults requires planned support and services. Strengthening social networks can catalyze community and economic development. Addressing these identified issues through a focused lens of community capitals, as suggested by the Community Capitals Framework (CCF), allows for a holistic approach to problem-solving. By understanding and leveraging the various forms of capital—human, social, financial, and natural—Georgia can effectively direct its resources to foster economic growth and enhance the quality of life for its residents. This strategic alignment not only positions Georgia to better tackle current challenges but also prepares it for future opportunities, ensuring a resilient and prosperous state. I've included the full manuscript below if you would like to learn more. Please be sure to share your insights using the comments. Powell, A., Lamm, K. W., Borron, A., & Lamm, A. J. (2023). Critical issues facing Georgia residents: An application of the delphi technique and community capitals framework. Journal of Agricultural Education, 64(4), 76-95. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.v64i4.102

Water is an essential resource for all facets of human activity, whether in agriculture or in everyday non-agricultural uses. A common understanding of water's importance between these sectors is crucial because it influences management policies and public awareness. Differences in knowledge and perceptions about water issues between agricultural and natural resource (ANR) opinion leaders and the general public underscore the need for enhanced communication and education across all demographics. In this post I share the results of a research study I conducted with some amazing colleagues. Key Findings: Knowledge Gap: There is a pronounced difference in knowledge about water issues between ANR opinion leaders and the general public. For example, a significantly higher percentage of ANR leaders are familiar with specific water management policies compared to the general public. Perception of Government Support: Both groups recognize some level of government support for making environmental decisions, though ANR opinion leaders perceive this support as weaker. Educational Needs: The study highlights a need for tailored educational strategies that accommodate different levels of existing knowledge and address specific audience characteristics. Recommendations: Enhance Common Language: Simplifying the language around water-related discussions is crucial. This includes minimizing jargon until it is clear that the terms are understood by a broad audience. Targeted Educational Interventions: Agricultural educators should use various strategies to bridge the knowledge gap. These might include using anecdotes or targeted messages that are specifically adapted to the audience’s pre-existing knowledge levels. Coalition Building: Forming coalitions with similar stakeholders can enhance the reach and impact of educational efforts, improving public understanding through combined resources and credibility. The differences in perceptions and knowledge about water management highlighted in this study are not just academic concerns; they have real-world implications for how water resources are managed and perceived across different segments of the population. A more informed public can engage more effectively in discussions and make better decisions about water management, benefiting both agriculturalists and the general populace. I've included the paper below if you would like to read the full study. Please be sure to share your feedback using the comments. Lamm, K. W., Lamm, A. J., & Carter, H. S. (2015). Bridging water issue knowledge gaps between the general public and opinion leaders. Journal of Agricultural Education, 56(3), 146-161. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2015.03146

Effective leadership programs require a thorough understanding of audience needs, including aspects like goal orientation and motivation. This understanding is particularly crucial in food system leadership development, where resources are scarce, yet the potential impacts are significant. As leaders navigate the complexities of the agricultural sector, designing programs tailored to meet the specific needs and goals of participants is essential. By incorporating empirical insights regarding program participant goal orientation and motivation, program developers can enhance the relevance and effectiveness of leadership initiatives within the food system context. I'm excited to share the results of a study I conducted with several amazing colleagues examining the relationship between goal orientation and demographic characteristics. As a quick note, all the results are based on data collected among agricultural leadership development program participants, and should therefore only be interpreted among respondents - all participants should always be considered and treated as individuals (additional study limitations are detailed further below). Age and Goal Orientation Younger participants had more performance-prove goal orientation (PGO-P), indicating a desire to prove competence. Older individuals prioritized personal growth and mastery, showcasing higher levels of learning goal orientation. Tailoring motivational strategies based on individual needs may help to improve relevance. Organizational Level and Goal Orientation Learning goal orientation increased as individuals moved up the organizational hierarchy. Upper-level management personnel viewed failure as a learning opportunity, while non-supervisory employees exhibited a greater aversion to failure. Differences in risk tolerance and job security concerns influenced goal orientation within organizational levels. Educational Attainment and Goal Orientation Educational attainment did not exhibit a clear correlation with goal orientation. Cognitive ability and educational background may not significantly influence goal orientation within adult food system leadership development programs. Educators are urged to focus on other learner characteristics when designing motivational strategies. Geographic Region Differences in Goal Orientation Distinct goal orientation tendencies were observed across different geographic regions. Considering individual differences over broad generalizations is essential in understanding regional variations. Important Limitations to Consider Generalizability of the findings is limited and should not be misinterpreted. Consideration of effect size is important, as low effect sizes may not warrant immediate action. Educational environments, including leadership programs, and their participants are diverse and unique, requiring tailored approaches. Implications and recommendations provided should only serve as a starting point for consideration in adult food system leadership development programs. Educators are advised to assess individual dispositional tendencies and program-level results before implementing interventions. The interplay between goal orientation and demographic factors underscores the complexity of leadership development within the food system domain. By acknowledging and accommodating these differences, educators can foster a more inclusive and effective learning environment. A nuanced understanding of goal orientation can be a powerful tool in helping to develop the food system leaders of tomorrow. Please be sure to share your insights using the comments section below. I've also attached the full manuscript if you are interested in learning more. Lamm, K. W., Powell, A., & Lamm, A. J. (2020). Examining the relationship between goal orientation and individual characteristics amongst agricultural leadership development program participants. Journal of Agricultural Education, 61(3), 144-163. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2020.03144

Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) have had a major impact on global food system practices by improving knowledge dissemination and fostering innovation in extension services. For example, when I was working in Kenya, Uganda, and Malawi I saw how mobile phones significantly improved farmers' access to market prices, weather forecasts, and agricultural techniques, leading to increased yields and better decision-making. This transformation was the purpose behind a study I conducted with several amazing collaborators to develop an empirical instrument to assess the capacity of extension networks to use ICTs effectively. By mapping out critical factors like accessibility, support, and perception, the study provides a framework for understanding how ICTs can be better integrated into agricultural networks globally. Through a scale development process, and as a follow up to previous context setting work, we identified six primary factors associated with ICT capacity in food system extension services: Integration of ICTs: Assessing how well ICTs are integrated into existing extension network operations, highlighting the need for incorporation into existing processes. ICT Accessibility: The ease with which network members can access ICT resources is critical for ensuring equitable technology distribution and use. Use and Support of ICTs: The extent to which network members use ICT tools and the level of support provided by the extension network for this use - the practical backing for technology within the network. ICT Logistics: The practical aspects of ICT deployment, including infrastructure, maintenance, and troubleshooting, underlining the logistical groundwork for effective ICT use. Promotion of ICTs: The efforts taken by extension networks to advocate for ICT use, essential for fostering an environment where technology adoption is encouraged. Perception of ICTs: Capturing the overall attitude towards ICTs within networks, which can significantly influence the willingness to adopt and integrate new technologies. These factors underscore the complex approach needed for ICT integration in food system extension networks. It involves a interconnections between accessibility, logistics, advocacy, and perceptions that can either facilitate or hinder the adoption of these essential tools. Based on the results, we recommend extension networks employ a structured top-down approach, where network leaders not only endorse but also actively integrate ICT use into extension activities, enhancing visibility and demonstrating practical benefits. Through this, extension networks can advance their communication strategies, streamline operations, and hopefully improve the impact of their outreach efforts in the global food system. I've included the full article below if you would like to learn more. Please be sure to share your insights in the comments section. Lamm, K. W., Lamm, A. J., Davis, K., Sanders, C. E., & Powell, A. (2021). Information and communication technology use capacity within extension networks: Development and preliminary validation of an empirical scale. Journal of International Agricultural and Extension Education, 28(4), 15-31. https://doi.org/10.4148/2831-5960.1001

The food animal industry is a cornerstone of global food security, providing essential nutrition to billions and underpinning the economic stability of numerous countries. It's not just a vital source of protein but also a significant contributor to livelihoods, cultural practices, and economies worldwide. Ensuring its health and efficiency is pivotal; as we saw during the COVID-19 pandemic any disruptions can ripple through the supply chain, impacting everything from farm workers to international markets and ultimately, consumer access to nutritious food. The industry's importance in balancing ecological stewardship with economic demands makes it a key focus for innovation and sustainable development practices. I'm excited to share the results of a research study I conducted with several amazing collaborators identifying and prioritizing critical issues facing the food and animal industry. Through a three round Delphi process a total of 56 critical issues facing the food and animal industry were identified. These issues were then thematically analyzed and grouped into 7 primary themes. The themes below represent the most critical issue areas identified through the process: Industry Image and Public Relations: The industry's narrative, as perceived by the public, is a foundational concern. Engaging effectively in public discourse is pivotal for shaping the industry's reputation and fostering consumer trust. Workforce Development and Pipeline: The sector's future depends on cultivating a workforce proficient in contemporary practices and technologies. Training and retaining professionals who are not only technically skilled but also deeply committed to the industry’s values and goals is crucial. Economic and Environmental Sustainability: These dual objectives stand at a crossroads. The industry's ability to remain economically viable while embracing environmental stewardship reflects a commitment to long-term sustainability. Animal and Human Health/Well-Being: The industry is tasked with ensuring the welfare of animals and the safety of food products. Adherence to rigorous health standards and effective disease prevention measures is critical to safeguarding public health and maintaining consumer confidence. Production and Distribution Efficiency: In the face of escalating global demand, refining production and distribution processes through innovative technologies and efficient management is a clear imperative. Government Regulations and Legislative Relations: Understanding and shaping the regulatory environment through informed policy engagement is essential for an industry subject to complex legal and political factors. Academic and Research Collaboration: Building robust partnerships with educational and research institutions is necessary to integrate scientific advancements into practical applications within the industry. These areas are not isolated; rather, they are interrelated components that must be addressed through a coordinated and rigorous approach. Industry leaders, policymakers, and academics alike must come together to prioritize these critical issues, ensuring the industry remains resilient and is positioned for growth in an ever-evolving global landscape. I've included the full manuscript below if you would like to learn more. Please be sure to share your thoughts in the comments section. Lamm, K. W., Randall, N. L., & Fluharty, F. L. (2021). Critical issues facing the animal and food industry: A delphi analysis. Translational Animal Science, 5(1), 1-10. https://doi.org/10.1093/tas/txaa213