AGREETT 101
What is AGREETT?
In 2015, Minnesota lawmakers approved legislation that created the Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Tech Transfer program (AGREETT). This program includes a multi-year $5 million state investment through the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) in agricultural research, Extension and teaching at the University of Minnesota.
How are AGREETT funds used?
An advisory panel of agriculture industry representatives, University leaders, and the MDA determine the most important challenges facing agriculture. The University then hires research faculty, graduate students and Extension educators to address those concerns. AGREETT funds have also been used to modernize labs at the University.
What issues are being addressed via AGREETT?
AGREETT funds are used to address these issues:
Crop and livestock productivity
Microbial science
Advancing soil fertility or water quality
Agricultural technology and decision-making
Nutrient recycling and management
Agro-ecological innovation
Technologies aimed at managing pest resistance and climate change
Where do the AGREETT faculty and educators work?
Many of the new hires have offices on the University’s St. Paul campus. Some are located across Minnesota at University Research and Outreach Centers in Morris, Crookston, Grand Rapids and Lamberton; others are located at Extension regional offices.
Which colleges at the University of Minnesota are involved in AGREETT?
New hires under the program are made by the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS); University of Minnesota Extension; and the College of Veterinary Medicine
How will AGREETT help Minnesota farmers?
AGREETT will grow the capacity of the University to reach farmers across the state with research, data and innovations that enable them to make sound decisions, conserve resources, cope with emerging problems and discover new opportunities. AGREETT funds will improve preparation for, and response to, global diseases that threaten animal, human and environmental health.
Will AGREETT help all Minnesotans?
Yes! This investment in the University will benefit everyone in the state because it is an investment in Minnesota’s food, economy, communities and environment.