The NSSI is a competitive grants program that aims to move sustainable production forward through multidisciplinary projects focused on new and proven technology, demonstration, outreach, extension and education, resulting in increased sustainable production and supply of strawberries to consumers.
Mission and Objectives of the NSSI
The goal of this Program is to improve sustainability of the US strawberry production system throughout the supply chain, from growers to consumers. To meet this goal, outreach, education, demonstration, and
development priority areas include:
- Increasing the regional diversity of US strawberry production
- Reducing chemical and energy inputs
- Conserving water and improving soil health in production
- Reducing post-harvest loss
Highlights of the NSSI results book include:
- Results of the National Strawberry Sustainability Initiative established in the 2013 with a $3 million grant from the Walmart Foundation
- Accomplishments and outcomes from 20 projects in 13 states
- Links to more than 70 videos, tools and publications created to improve sustainability of the U.S. strawberry industry
- An online diagnostic tool for growers
- A video series on how to grow strawberries hydroponically and with high tunnels for season extension
- An e-learning tool on strawberry farming techniques for cold climates
- Interactive production budgets for producers
- This project is funded by a grant from the Walmart Foundation and administered by the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture Center for
Agricultural and Rural Sustainability.
