Impact Magazine - Spring 2008 - (Page 2)

perspective as we address the challenges of a new year, it is important to note that 2007 was highly successful for UF’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. Thanks to our outstanding faculty, students and staff, new levels of performance were achieved in our statewide teaching, research and extension programs. For example, more than 5,000 students — including record numbers of women and minority students — were enrolled in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. Sponsored research and education awards reached a new high of $93.5 million, and matching support from county governments for extension education programs was stronger than ever, almost $40 million. Alumni and friends also continued to play a huge role in the success of IFAS programs. They have given generously to the Florida Tomorrow Campaign — with more than $62 million given to IFAS thus far in the campaign. Now, with a changing economy, higher energy prices and state revenue shortfalls, we face difficult times in a growing state. Having faced budget reductions earlier this fiscal year, we expect another substantial reduction in our budget this year. Fifty years ago, Florida’s population was approximately five million. Today there are more than 18 million people living in the state. In the next 50 years more rural lands will be converted to urban use, and development may surround land now used for agriculture, forest and natural resources, or conservation areas. This growth will have an impact on agriculture and the environment, including greenspace, water and other natural resources, and energy. We are conducting research and extension programs to inform the discussion and lead to better land and water use decisions for a sustainable Florida. And we are preparing the next generation of scientists and industry leaders for the agricultural and natural resources economy. I am serving on a task force convened by John Hoblick, president of the Florida Farm Bureau. The vision statement that we have developed for our work is that in 100 years, agriculture will remain a major economic pillar of Florida’s economy and benefit Florida citizens. While changes present many challenges, IFAS has a unique mission to provide research-based solutions for issues related to agriculture, natural resources, land use and renewable energy. IFAS is committed to the future growth and sustainability of Florida’s $101 billion agricultural and natural resources industries in the global economy. With your continued support, IFAS will meet the challenges and opportunities for generations to come. Our faculty, students and programs will continue to earn national and international preeminence while serving Florida’s needs. Sincerely, jimmy g. cheek Senior Vice President Agriculture and Natural Resources University of Florida 2 IMPACT | Spring 2008 http://www.ifas.ufl.edu

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Impact Magazine - Spring 2008

Impact Magazine - Spring 2008 Contents A Big Boost for Biofuels Top Priority Partnerships for Sustainable Agriculture Eliminating the Evil Weevil Invasive Pest Defeating Resistant Roaches Biodiesel Boon User-Friendly Updates for FAWN Flat-Out Great for the Grill! Laser Labeling Cashing in on Caviar Saving Water with Soil-Moisture Sensors Spotlight IFAS Development News

Impact Magazine - Spring 2008

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