Mission

agInnovation West plans and manages multistate research across the 13 western states and four Pacific territories, connecting Agricultural Experiment Station directors with regional priorities and national partners.​

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​Vision

agInnovation West envisions a strong, collaborative western research network that addresses the priorities of the Western Region and the nation through integrated research, extension, and academic programs.​

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Priorities

Sustainable Production Systems: Food Production, Food Safety, Food Security, Forestry and Horticulture

• Address the use of forest products in green building materials and design.

• Improve the application of agroforestry practices and principles in protecting water and soil resources.

• Create multipurpose landscapes that can produce food, fiber, energy and other products for human use. 

• Develop management strategies to preserve the value of our forests in the face of ongoing climate changes that are altering both the economic and ecological dynamics of the forest.

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Natural Resources: Water, Wildlife, Wildfire, Invasive Species, Ecosystem Services and Economic Opportunities

• Provide more knowledge on invasion biology to better assess risk, prediction and intervention.

• Help communities develop flexible and effective water policies  and strategies.

• Develop innovative scientific techniques, products and processes to improve water use efficiency and water conservation management practices.

• Demonstrate the socio-economic impacts of management options so that leaders are empowered to make smart choices that balance the needs of communities and wildlife.

• Develop new strategies to address more effective fuel management practices to help reduce the occurrence of wildfires.

 

Energy

• Research innovative production and conversion pathways for expanded use of sustainable bioenergy.

• Develop and assess the feasibility of energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies in industrial and other applications.

• Spearhead public-private partnerships to spur clean energy- and bioenergy-based economic development solutions.

 

Community and Economic Development

• Develop young scholars programs for high school students, including women and minorities.

• Create and implement a research and Extension apprentice program for university students.

• Provide additional fellowship programs for pre-doctoral and post-doctoral students.

 

Youth Development: Agriculture, Nutrition and Natural Resources Science Literacy

• Develop new approaches to school readiness (pre-K), especially among low-income and underrepresented populations.

• Provide alternative academic pathways and promote leadership development and citizenship opportunities to keep youth engaged.

• Complement the K-12 school system and help develop skill sets to prepare youth for higher education and future career opportunities.

 

Nutrition and Health: Innovation in Foods for Health

• Conduct fundamental and applied research to provide healthy whole foods that play a key role in preventing disease and promoting wellness.

• Form collaborations among Western LGU scientists, industry, school  personnel, and state and county agencies to deliver nutrition education programs.

• Identify effective strategies for preventing obesity and chronic diseases related to food.

• Equip consumers with the tools to make informed decisions about food choices, nutrition, food safety and food handling.