USDA Cattle Research Could Strengthen Rural Farming Sustainability
Climate variables studied to determine impact on beef and dairy cattle
According to a release from the USDA, $19.5 million in grants has been awarded to the research of science-backed solutions that can be integrated into rural cattle farming. In an attempt to strengthen rural economics, the USDA is funding research to better understand how climate variability affects dairy and beef cattle production.
Researchers from universities across all regions of the U.S. will reportedly work together in Coordinated Agricultural Projects (CAP) to determine current and future needs of rural cattle farmers. The CAP teams intend to safeguard regional beef and dairy production from potentially harmful climate changes and educate future generations about the impact climate has on cattle. The goal of the research is to provide rural farmers with applicable solutions, methods, and information that will help them adjust their cattle farm practices to succeed in variable climate and weather conditions.
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said, “We have seen the impact that variable climate patterns have had on production agriculture for the past several years. These projects will deliver the best tools available to accurately measure and respond to the effects of climate on beef and dairy production. Farmers and ranchers need sound, science-based information and solutions to help them make management decisions that will sustain their productivity and keep their operations economically viable."
The USDA’s research funding initiative is reportedly intended to produce tangible improvements and solutions for cattle farming in rural America that lead to more sustainable rural economy.