Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education

The purpose of the SARE program, under assistance listing 10.215, is to encourage research and extension projects designed to increase knowledge concerning agricultural production systems that: (1) maintain and enhance the quality and productivity of the soil; (2) conserve soil, water, energy, natural resources, and fish and wildlife habitat; (3) maintain and enhance the quality of surface and ground water; (4) protect the health and safety of persons involved in the food and farm system; (5) promote the well-being of animals; and (6) increase employment opportunities in agriculture.
For purposes of this program, sustainable agriculture is defined by section 1404 of the National Agricultural Research, Extension/outreach and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 USC 3103(19)) as an integrated system of plant and animal production practices having a site-specific application that over the long-term will satisfy human food and fiber needs; enhance environmental quality and the natural resource base upon which the agriculture economy depends; make the most efficient use of nonrenewable and on-farm resources and integrate, where appropriate, natural biological cycles and controls; sustain the economic viability of farm and ranch operations; and enhance the quality of life for farmers and ranchers and society as a whole.

Land-grant colleges or universities, other universities, State agricultural experiment stations, State cooperative extension services, nonprofit organizations, and individuals with demonstrable expertise, or Federal or State governmental entities.

Within the limit of funds authorized, the NIFA awarding official will make grants to responsible
and eligible applicants whose applications are judged most meritorious under the procedures set
forth in this NOFO. The date specified by the NIFA awarding official as the effective date of the
cooperative agreement must be no later than September 30 of the federal fiscal year in which the
project is approved for support and funds are appropriated for such purpose, unless otherwise
permitted by law. The project need not be initiated on the effective date of the cooperative
agreement, but as soon thereafter as practical so that project goals may be attained within the
funded project period.

From 30 to 60 days.

Contact the National Program Leader (NPL), Headquarters Office regarding dates for specific deadlines, start and end dates, and range of approval/disapproval time.

Information is also available via our website and may be obtained via the Grants.gov website. NIFA’s respective links regarding general information are provided below:
http://nifa.usda.gov/
http://www.grants.gov.