| Our group will improve support for IPM practices and increase IPM implementation in the region by:
(1) Facilitating communication through an initial two-day meeting (held Nov. 15-17, 2006) and follow-up conference calls, email and web pages dedicated to IPM and NRCS program linkages.
(2) Assembling collaborations and resources to develop information for growers to identify IPM tools for addressing conservation concerns prioritized by NRCS conservation programs. Develop simple verification/assessment tools for growers and local NRCS staff to authenticate the value of IPM.
(3) Compiling support documentation to craft program recommendations to NRCS designed to increase use of IPM as a conservation tool.
(4) Supporting producer participation in market-based programs such as SYSCO’s Sustainable Agriculture Initiative, Food Alliance and soil, air and water quality credit trading by increasing awareness of these programs and potential linkages to both IPM and NRCS programs.
(5) Exploring opportunities for ongoing cooperative agreements and other collaborative arrangements between NRCS and IPM professionals. |