The Division's Agricultural Productivity Program comprises those Division personnel whose research and outreach programs focus on improving the sustainability, efficiency and profitability of California's diverse and productive agricultural systems. In addition to academics and staff in the counties and on the three campuses, it includes the Sustainable Agriculture, Small Farms, Farm Safety, and Genetic Resources Conservation programs. This office works with these programs and existing workgroups, and fosters the creation of new workgroups, to address challenges and explore new opportunities for California's farmers and ranchers.

California agriculture is at a critical point in its evolution, challenged economically by the globalization of agriculture, oversupply of many commodities, falling prices and increased costs of essential inputs. The continuing population and urbanization of the state is increasing competition for water and land and the political pressure to reduce agriculture's environmental impact. A robust future for agriculture in the California portfolio depends on the development of techniques to reduce the costs of inputs and increase the value of production while eliminating negative environmental impacts. Our response to this Herculean challenge will include vigorous and innovative research and extension education programs, and focusing the University's resources on key challenges and opportunities.

Dan Putnam, Program Leader
Telephone: (530) 752-8982
E-mail: dhputnam@ucdavis.edu