In its recent annual report, the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute shared its impact throughout the past year toward its mission of ensuring a sustainable future in which everyone has access to nutritious food and clean water.
The institute launched its new USAID-funded Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Irrigation and Mechanization Systems, providing $40 million over the next five years for the institute and partners to develop viable solutions to support the growth of vibrant irrigation and mechanization markets in the Global South.
It also expanded its suite of water management tools, including a multi-state network of flux towers which accurately measure crop-water use and carbon-equivalent emissions. The information from the initiative supports water management decisions and interstate water agreement negotiations, helps validate carbon credits and has generated numerous partnerships, grants and interest from partners.
Over the last year the institute also contributed to several high-profile publications through its Water, Climate and Health Program, including the federally-mandated Fifth National Climate Assessment, the first comprehensive assessment of drought and health in the US and the Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change Policy Brief for the U.S.
The institute also welcomed 14 new members to its Faculty Fellow cohort and funded 11 new students working on mission-related research this year, in addition to the 20 returning students who continued their research with the help of the institute's funding.
Currently in its 15th anniversary year, the institute will be culminating in its Water for Food Global Conference April 28-May 2, 2025 in Lincoln.
“Together, we can create a more water and food secure world, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for generations to come,” said Peter G. McCornick, executive director of DWFI.
The institute's full 2023-2024 annual report can be found online.
