Investing in Research: A Proposal to Strengthen the Agricultural, Food, and Environmental System

摘要

The purpose of this proposal--as well as the challenge it presents--is to mobilize the nation's scientific and engineering communities to advance the quality of agriculture, the food supply, and the environment. The proposal presents a program to strengthen the focus of U.S. science on agriculture. The premise is that a judicious but substantial increase in research funding through competitive grants is the best way to sustain and strengthen the U.S. agircultural, food, and environmental system. The United States needs to invest in the future--in human capital and the scientific knowledge base--to revitalize and reinvigorate one of its leading industries, the agricultural, food, and environmental system, in its broadest sense. A sound investment strategy for research is fundamental to sustain economic performance, to respond competitively to the increased economic strengths and manufacturing capacities of other nations, and to maintain the U.S. quality of life.