From 2003-2005, Farming and the Environment, through the grant support of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, funded two separate research projects by Washington State University professors, Dr. Shulin Chen and Dr. Marcia Ostrom. Dr. Chen focused his scientific expertise on no-till farming and developing processes for creating products from agricultural wastes and crop residues. Dr. Ostrom researched how local and direct marketing can improve the economic viability of family farms in Washington state.

Featured Research

• Managing Soil Loss

The latest findings about no-till farming as a way to reduce soil erosion and enhance water resources.

• Growing Farm Incomes

Find out how local and direct marketing increases farm incomes.

• Consumer Interest in Direct, Local Food Purchasing 

See what consumers want from local products and direct food purchasing.

• The Importance of Direct Marketing to Washington Farmers 

Explore how important direct marketing is to Washington state farmers and which types of direct marketing are used most.

• Washington Farmer Views on Environmental Policy

Review Washington state farmers' opinions on environmental policies and their role in providing land stewardship.