PULLMAN, Wash. – What do sweet alyssum, cassava, medicinal plants, and the nutritional value of organically grown strawberries all have in common? They are all research stories covered in today’s issue of Green Times, Washington State University’s popular e-newsletter focused on organic and sustainable agriculture. The new issue is archived at http://bit.ly/greentimes201201.
Dan Bernardo, dean of CAHNRS, said the publication fills an important niche in the regional agricultural community by publishing current research news and profiles of farmers and other regional industry professionals, publicizing events, and acting as a focal point for the burgeoning regional organic community.
“For over 30 years, Washington State University has been at the forefront of sustainable and organic agriculture education, innovation, and research,” Bernardo said.
WSU scientists provided some of the first direct evidence of the nutritional value of organically grown food and are leaders in calling for changes in the way Americans practice agriculture. WSU Extension educators have developed valuable new methods of weed and pest control that promise to be not only environmentally sustainable but economically viable as well.
WSU was the first university in the United States to offer a science-based, four-year major in organic agriculture. WSU also developed the first online certificate program in organic ag, enabling food-system professionals to retool their skills to meet the demands of a changing and growing market for organic food. And every year, WSU educators conduct dozens of workshops and seminars in sustainable and organic production methods all over the state.
Green Times subscriptions are free. Interested persons may start or manage their subscription at http://bit.ly/greentimes.
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