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USDA seeks committee members - Urban agriculture expertise needed

By Farms.com

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is calling on individuals with expertise in urban agriculture and related fields to join its Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production Committee. This committee plays a crucial role in advising the USDA on policies and programs that support urban farming and innovative agricultural practices.

"The committee provides invaluable guidance on how to best serve urban farmers and communities," said Terry Cosby, head of the USDA's Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production. "New members with expertise in areas like innovative production, education, and supply chains will be instrumental in shaping the future of urban agriculture."

The USDA is currently seeking nominations for four specific positions: 

  1. An urban farmer who utilizes innovative technologies in their production methods. 

  1. A representative from a university or extension program with a focus on agriculture education. 

  1. A professional with experience in the agricultural supply chain, such as those working in food aggregation, wholesale distribution, food hubs, or direct-to-consumer marketing.

An individual with knowledge of emerging agricultural practices, particularly those suited for urban settings, indoor environments, or other non-traditional methods.

Nominations can be submitted by individuals or organizations and should include a background form, a statement outlining the nominee's qualifications for a specific position, a resume, and any relevant publications or letters of recommendation.

The deadline for nominations is July 7, 2024. This is a unique opportunity for qualified individuals to contribute their expertise and help shape the future of urban agriculture in the United States.


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In this episode of The Swine Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Kwangwook Kim, Assistant Professor at Michigan State University, discusses the use of non-nutritive sweeteners in nursery pig diets. He explains how sucralose and neotame influence feed intake, gut health, metabolism, and the frequency of diarrhea compared to antibiotics. The conversation highlights mechanisms beyond palatability, including hormone signaling and nutrient transport. Listen now on all major platforms!

“Receptors responsible for sweet taste are present not only in the mouth but also along the intestinal tract.”

Meet the guest: Dr. Kwangwook Kim / kwangwook-kim is an Assistant Professor at Michigan State University, specializing in swine nutrition and feed additives under disease challenge models. He earned his M.S. and Ph.D. in Animal Sciences from the University of California, Davis, where he focused on intestinal health and metabolic responses in pigs. His research evaluates alternatives to antibiotics, targeting gut health and performance in nursery pigs.