The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) seek to fund research projects that will improve crop production efficiency and advance solutions to critically important problems in U.S. agriculture, thereby increasing farmer profitability and sustainability. The Supplemental and Alternative Crops Program (SAC) supports projects that lead to expanded adaptation and increased acreage in the United States of canola grown for oil and industrial hemp grown for value-added products. This is an integrated research and extension program that will produce results to increase the cost effectiveness and competitiveness of these two crops grown as components of production systems across the country. The SAC supports the breeding, testing, and development of superior performing canola and industrial hemp varieties and production practices that result in improved cost efficiencies, reduced grower risks, and wider use in production systems. Research results and technology developed are expected to be rapidly transferred to producers and other users through effective extension outreach and other engagement efforts.
2023 Awardee: Agricultural Research Service, Geneva, NY