Agriculture and Food Systems
Focus: Current, ongoing research at the intersection of agriculture and climate science. Our extent is not simply on farm-level food production, but includes the entire food system, from soil health and agroecology to human dimensions such as reducing food waste and food access equity. This sector supports Strategies D-F & H of Maine Won’t Wait.
Key Content Areas: Soil Health and Carbon * Biochar * The Intersection of Climate and PFSAS* Nutrition and Food Security * Local Food Networks * Agritourism and Climate
Agriculture Related Carbon
A census of ongoing projects focused on soil carbon and the production and potential sequestration of carbon in agricultural lands. Specific foci will be the relationship between soil health (structure, nutrients, microbiome) and carbon storage; new agricultural approaches to reduce agricultural-related carbon emissions; and potential new products and processes to increase carbon sequestration potential.
Food Security
Detailed examination of food systems in Maine, with the aim of identifying both the ongoing research and knowledge gaps around food waste and availability. We hope to emphasize local farm to market dynamics, and work with communities and local governments to form partnerships to increase food equity and availability and reduce food waste at every step in the food production system.
Crop Resiliency
Catalog of cutting-edge research on crop plant phenology, emerging pests and solutions, and new potential crops, especially that being conducted by university Extension and agricultural industry partners. Combined with market and NGO studies, this could provide valuable tools or guidance documents for the future of climate-resilient Maine agriculture.
To learn more about active research in this sector, or to share a research project of your own, please contact us!
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