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Organic
Initiative
IDEA has noticed an increase in questions regarding organic production and consumption. While trying to provide clients with answers, we have found that there is very little research being done by land grant universities throughout the United States. Because of this, we believe it is IDEA and the University of Illinois' responsibility to pursue research opportunities in organics.
In the fall of 2001, IDEA and the University of Illinois formed an Organic Task Force consisting of faculty, staff, and organic practitioners. Its objectives were:
- To assess the needs of stakeholders;
- Identify current activities and interest among University faculty and staff;
- Communicate the results of the assessments;
- And develop an ongoing communication process to ensure stakeholders provide input and learn about outcomes.
Examples of outcomes the Organic Task Force is starting to foster include:
- organic field days
- online databases,
- participatory research with organic farmers,
- a directory of local organic farmers,
- farmer markets and specialty stores,
- and allocation of land on the University of Illinois South Farms to organic research.
You may view the final results of the task force and the recommendations sent to the Dean of the College of Agricultural and Consumer and Environmental Sciences by clicking on the choice below.
C-FAR Grant--Determing the Market Potential of Organic Food Production in Illinois--This research project was funded by C-FAR in July, 2002. Researchers are currently conducting a review of the literature to determine why types of markets exist both nationally and statewide. Currently a group of key informants (individuals involved in or knowledgeable about organic marketing and production) are being identified. These individuals will be interviewed between January and April of 2003. A set of questions to be used in these interviews are also being developed. In addition, another questionnaire is being developed to be sent via the mail to secondary sources.
If you are interested in viewing the Executive Summary of the grant, click here.
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University
of Illinois Extension
Office of Extension and Outreach
College of Agricultural, Consumer and
Environmental Sciences
University of Illinois
University
of Illinois - US Dept of Agriculture - Local Extension Councils Cooperating
University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs
and employment.
Copyright© 2004