The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is providing $33 million to 19 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) for research and education projects in farming. The money will help with sustainable farming practices like using less plastic, making vegetables healthier, and solving issues with sunflower seed oil.
The projects will have a big impact, going beyond just classrooms and labs. They will find practical solutions to improve our food system and inspire the next generation of students and scientists.
The 1890 Land-Grant Institutions, including HBCUs, were established with land taken from Indigenous tribes. Now, the USDA wants to support these colleges and improve the food and agriculture industry.
Many projects will focus on sustainable farming, which means helping the environment. The USDA wants to reduce the harmful effects of farming on the climate.
For example, one project will test biodegradable materials to replace plastic on farms. Another will explore using a special flower to help honey production and make farming more sustainable. There are also projects to understand how some crops can survive and thrive in changing climates.
This funding shows that the USDA cares about making agriculture better and working with HBCUs to create a brighter future for farming.
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Categories: Wisconsin, Government & Policy