USDA and NASA expand their partnership

Jul 17, 2015

Organizations hope to attract younger generations

The distance between Earth’s surface and outer space is approximately 100km (62 miles) but the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is doing their part to bridge that gap.

View of Earth from space

Through an expanded partnership, NASA and the USDA will work together and attempt to better predict wildfires and monitor drought, all while inspiring the next generation to pursue careers in agriculture, science and other fields.

"Space is a unique laboratory that can be a gateway to solving some of the greatest agricultural challenges of our time," said USDA Deputy Secretary Krysta Harden. "This partnership is a powerful opportunity for USDA and NASA to yield new tools and techniques to help farmers and ranchers as they deal with the ongoing impacts of climate change and drought. Perhaps most importantly, this partnership will expose more young people to the power of science and innovation to solve some of the world's most pressing challenges."

Among the initiatives are possible soil moisture maps for California that when used, could improve weather forecasting, water availability and provide early-drought warnings to farmers.

"There are many areas where NASA and USDA have overlapping interests," said NASA's Deputy Administrator Dava Newman. "We can now better coordinate and build on the resources of both NASA and the USDA to help learn more about our planet's vital resources and inspire the next generation to become better stewards of our planet."

Since 2009, the USDA has put approximately $4.32 billion into research and development. It’s estimated that every dollar invested in agricultural research brings more than $20 back into the American economy.

Join the conversation and tell us your thoughts about the USDA and NASA expanding their partnership. What are some other things NASA should look for in space to help the farmers on Earth?

Video: Early Fall Colors | Scenic Ontario Road Trip!

All adventures must come to an end, but not without one more journey! Join The Wandering Shepherds as we say farewell to our cozy Calabogie cottage and take the scenic road trip home to Ewetopia Farms. Our first stop was a breathtaking hydroelectric generating station, framed by cliffs, rushing water, and brilliant fall leaves that seemed to have changed overnight. From there, we meandered along winding backroads through lakes and hills, soaking in the spectacular autumn scenery. This year, the colors seemed to arrive earlier than usual—perhaps due to the summer’s drought? Whatever the reason, it was an unforgettable display of Ontario’s fall beauty. Finally, our holiday drew to a close as we pulled back into Ewetopia Farms, ready to return to the sheep and our daily vlogs. But this trip reminded us how important it is to pause, explore, and appreciate the simple beauty around us.