CLEMSON NAMED INSTITUTION OF THE YEAR
AT AGRICULTURE CONFERENCE

CLEMSON - Clemson University received the 2004 Institution of the Year Award from the Carolina Farm Stewardship Association at the sustainable agriculture conference in Asheville , N.C. The award was established to recognize public, private and non-governmental organizations for efforts and programs to promote sustainable agriculture in the Carolinas .

Clemson was recognized because of its accomplishments in providing extension agent training in sustainable and organic farming practices, maintaining the Calhoun Fields Laboratory Sustainable Farming Project and the Clemson heirloom vegetable project, and establishing certified organic experimental research sites on campus and throughout the state.

"The award is significant for Clemson because it acknowledges the university as a leading institution in the development of innovative programs to promote sustainable agriculture, including more profitable and environmentally sound farming practices for local growers," said Geoff Zehnder, coordinator for sustainable agriculture programs.

The vision of Clemson's program is to meet the needs of the current generation of farmers while also leaving equal or better opportunities for future generations. The university is creating regionally and nationally recognized models for sustainable agriculture to meet those needs through research, teaching and public outreach programs.

"This award is also validation of the hard work and accomplishments of Clemson personnel who are working to develop and promote sustainable agriculture practices for our local farmers," Zehnder said.

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