Amid today’s global challenges — including the escalated need for food and nutrition security under mounting population pressure — the mission of the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute at the University of Nebraska has never been more vital. The institute’s recent annual report marks a year of critical research, capacity building and global thought leadership, and details significant progress across the institute’s three core focus areas.
“Throughout its 15-year history, the institute has leveraged world-class University of Nebraska research; state expertise in agricultural and water resource management; and private sector partnerships to make real progress toward a water- and food-secure future for all,” Peter McCornick, the institute's executive director.
The report also honors the nearly decade-long leadership of McCornick, who will retire from the University of Nebraska at the end of this year.
Key Outcomes and Impact Areas in FY 2025
Water management for high-productivity commercial agriculture
DWFI continues to solidify its expertise in climate-smart agriculture by innovating and implementing water-wise technologies and decision support systems. This year, DWFI reached several key milestones to help producers improve efficiency, reduce risk, and build resilience.
Sustainable smallholder agricultural water management
Smallholder farmers produce a large share of the world’s food, yet many lack dependable access to water. This year, DWFI advanced partnerships and innovations that support agricultural climate resiliency across developing regions through practical, scalable approaches.
Environmental and human health in agricultural systems
Through science, policy and education, the institute deepened its focus on the critical nexus of water, the environment and human health, ensuring agriculture remains part of the solution.
The institute continues to prioritize education, capacity building and workforce development, as well as communications and convening, which are cross-cutting themes woven throughout all its initiatives. This year, the institute welcomed eight new faculty fellows, bringing its total to more than 130 University of Nebraska faculty. The institute also supported 28 students conducting mission-relevant research. Its 2025 Water for Food Global Conference brought together 350 thought leaders from nearly 30 countries working toward the same goal of feeding our growing planet with less pressure on our water resources.
“As I conclude my time at DWFI, I am incredibly proud of our 15 years of progress and have every confidence that the institute and our global partners will continue to drive meaningful impact,” said McCornick.
The Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute 2024-2025 annual report is available online.
