Ethical and value issues; The global setting: resource, environmental, and socio-economic trends; The national setting: past and present goals and priorities; Assessing neglected dimensions; Evaluative concepts in agricultural research; Emerging alternatives and their implications; Where do we go from here?.

This book responds to the widespread recognition among experts that our educational system needs to change in order to provide the skills and knowledge necessary to ensure the future vitality of U.S. agriculture. Understanding Agriculture focuses on agricultural literacy (education about agriculture) and vocational agricultural education (education in agriculture). The section on agricultural literacy addresses the teaching of science through agriculture, teacher education and training, model educational programs, community support, and agricultural career exploration programs. Vocational agricultural education is examined in terms of program enrollment, availability and content, supervised occupational experiences, the Future Farmers of America program, and teacher education and supply.

Examines the scientific and economic viability of agriculture systems that can help farmers and policymakers achieve the goals of keeping U.S. farm exports competitive, cutting production costs, and reducing the environmental consequences of farming. Describes the dimensions of U.S. agriculture in the domestic and world economies and its evolution since WWII. Outlines some of the economic and environmental consequences of agricultural practices and fed. gov't. policies. Examines the basic science supporting farming practices widely used in alternative agriculture and analyzes the economic potential of alternative systems. Case studies.

This report is a congressionally mandated review of the US Department of Agriculture's Research, Education, and Economics (REE) mission area, the main engine of publicly funded agricultural research in the United States. A changing social and scientific context of agriculture requires a new vision of agricultural research-one that will support agriculture as a positive economic, social, and environmental force. REE is uniquely positioned to advance new research frontiers in environment, public health, and rural communities. The report recommends that REE be more anticipatory and strategic in its use of limited resources and guide and champion new directions in research.

Authored by an integrated committee of plant and animal scientists, this review of newer molecular genetic techniques and traditional research methods is presented as a compilation of high-reward opportunities for agricultural research. Directed to the Agricultural Research Service and the agricultural research community at large, the volume discusses biosciences research in genetic engineering, animal science, plant science, and plant diseases and insect pests. An optimal climate for productive research is discussed.