Opprortunities for Nebraska | Volume 1 | August 2010

STRATEGIC DISCUSSIONS FOR nebraska Opportunities for Nebraska

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University of Nebraska–Lincoln College of Journalism and Mass Communications Acknowledgements

Strategic Discussions for Nebraska is grateful to the Robert and Ardis James Family Foundation. Their foresight, financial support and guidance have made this program possible. Strategic Discussions for Nebraska benefits from the involvement and advice of an external advisory board. We wish to express appreciation to the board members:

Mark Balschweid, Ph.D., Department Head of the UNL Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communication

Charlyne Berens, Ph.D., Interim Dean of the UNL College of Journalism and Mass Communications

Jonathan Brand, J.D., President of Doane College in Crete

Eric Brown, Ph.D., General Manager of KRVN Radio in Lexington

Frederik Ohles, Ph.D., President of Nebraska Wesleyan University in Lincoln

Janie Park, Ph.D., President of Chadron State College

Harvey Perlman, J.D., Chancellor of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln

James Seacrest, Retired Newspaper Publisher, Lincoln

Linda Shipley, Ph.D., Associate Dean of the UNL College of Journalism and Mass Communications

Jose Soto, J.D., Vice President of Affirmative Action, Equity and Diversity, Southeast Community College Area, Lincoln

Lyn Wallin Ziegenbein, J.D., Executive Director of the Peter Kiewit Foundation, Omaha

We also wish to thank the ex-officio board members:

Ralph James, Executive Director of Executive Education Harvard Business School, Cambridge, Robert James, Ph.D., President Enterprise Asset Management, Inc., , New York Cathy James Paglia, Director Enterprise Asset Management. Inc., New York, New York

Strategic Discussions for Nebraska also appreciates the involvement of the faculty and staff of the UNL College of Journalism and Mass Communications, including Dr. Charlyne Berens, interim dean; Dr. Linda Shipley, associate dean; Tim Anderson; Dr. Ruth Brown; Trina Creighton; Dr. Frauke Hachtmann; Michelle Hassler; Phyllis Larsen; and Amy Struthers Opportunities Dear Readers: for Nebraska

This Opportunities for Nebraska magazine is the first in a series of four annual publications of Strategic 6 . . . . Land Grant Mission Articles Discussions for Nebraska that will explore the impact and relevance of research at the University of Nebraska- 10 . . . . NU Funding Sources Lincoln. 12 . . . . U.S. Economic Power Hinges on You’ll find our presence on the Web at www.unl.edu/ Research Universities sdn; look for the publication and the video clips. You 14 . . . . Nebraska Innovation Campus Means More can watch and listen as UNL experts tell the stories Jobs, Keeping Talent in Nebraska of research and innovation at one of the top research 16 . . . . Helping Kids Learn, Grow and Connect – universities in the United States. Wherever They Live University research is sometimes so complex that it’s 18 . . . . Choosing a Medicare Part D Plan: UNL difficult to understand, but the stories and photos in Extension Offers Advice these publications will capture the passion of discovery 19 . . . . Handling Rural Conflict Can Make or Break and the significance of new ideas – and how research Small Communities affects you, me and the world. 20 . . . . One Million New Scientists. One Million We’ll look at why research into food, fuel and New Ideas.™ impacts not only land and lives in Nebraska, but also 21 . . . . Planning Your Meals to Save Your Life the land and lives of people throughout the world. 22 . . . . “Impacting the World Three Times a Day” and We know it’s not possible to conduct research without “Food from Thought” educating the state’s people, so we’ll explore education 24 . . . . Feeding Millions of People Motivates UNL throughout the four magazines, as well. After all, that’s Grains Breeder what we do at the university – teach students, conduct 26 . . . . Understanding Nebraska research – and take that research to people throughout 28 . . . . There’s No Place Like Nebraska – for Weather the state and the world. 30 . . . . UNL Water Center Addresses Quality, Quantity, In this magazine, you’ll find a sampling of various Sustainability Issues kinds of research going on right now at the University 32 . . . . Global Water for Food Institute Races to Find of Nebraska-Lincoln. These selected stories are meant Sustainable Solutions to help readers become better-acquainted with research and the people who devote their lives to creating a better world. We also hope you’ll look for our upcoming STRATEGIC DISCUSSIONS FOR nebraska magazines! We are grateful to the Robert and Ardis James Family Mary Garbacz, SDN Coordinator; Lecturer, UNL Foundation for funding the Strategic Discussions for College of Journalism and Mass Communications Nebraska research program and for placing it in the Linda Shipley, Ph.D., Professor and Associate UNL College of Journalism and Mass Communications, Dean, UNL College of Journalism and Mass which also provides support for the program. The Communications James family believes in the power of change through Adam Wagler, M.A., SDN Design Specialist; discussion and dissemination of information. Lecturer, UNL College of Journalism and Mass Thank you for your interest! Communications Nkem Kalu, M.B.A., SDN Graduate Assistant Sincerely, Sarah Van Dalsem, SDN Graduate Assistant Becky Gailey, SDN Undergraduate Intern

Mary Garbacz, Coordinator and Editor Strategic Discussions for Nebraska Strategic Discussions for Nebraska College of Journalism and Mass Communications 133 Andersen Hall [email protected] University of Nebraska–Lincoln [email protected] Lincoln, Nebraska 68588-0443 402.472.3075 Tel: 402.472.3075 Fax: 402.472.8597 www.unl.edu/sdn

Cover image: All articles written by Strategic Discussions for Niobrara River near Valentine, Nebraska Nebraska except when noted. All photography by Adam Wagler except when noted. Western Nebraska Opportunities for Nebraska STRATEGIC DISCUSSIONS FOR nebraska By Garbacz Mary For more information visit www.unl.edu/sdn/opportunities Public Education Land GrantModelof A BriefHistoryofthe 6 Printing Office, Washington, D.C.) U.S.D.A.the Office of Publications, Government Howard Greathouse and published in1907by Department of Agriculture, compiled by Charles printing and distributing results. the forterritory of expenses the research, as well as for providedalso an annual payment to eachstate and subjects connected with agriculture. The Hatch Act information to people the of United the States on only experiment stations, but distribution also of Hatch of Missouri, Hatch the Act established not practice. Named for Congressman William Henry researchso conducted could be and applied in stations inconnection with land the grant colleges The Hatch establishedAct experiment agricultural Congress Hatch the passed Act –on March 2,1887. extension. institutions’ missions of teaching, research and system formed framework the for land the grant census –thus name the “land grant.” Theland grant Representative inCongress, on 1860 the based of land federal for eachsitting Senator and life.” pursuitsclasses several inthe and professions in and education liberal the practical of industrial the may respectively prescribe, inorder to promote in such manner as legislatures the of states the as are related to agriculture and mechanic the arts, to teach such tactics, branchesmilitary of learning other scientific and classical studies, and including without be, leading shall the object excluding Act was to establish acollege ineachstate “where Morrill of Vermont, of Morrill the purpose the Lincoln. Named for Congressman Justin Smith into law on July 2,1862by President Abraham passagethe of Morrill the Act, was which signed campuses of University the of Nebraska system. Nebraska, land the grant mission extends four to all Lincoln wascampus original the of University the of its territories. Although University the of Nebraska- 100 land grant institutions United inthe States and (Taken from Historical the Sketch of U.S. the Twenty-five years after the Act passed, Morrillwas The Morrill gaveAct each state 30,000acres Theland grant college system was established by The University of Nebraska is one of morethan explains the land grant system and how it impacts Nebraska. with University of Nebraska President James B. Milliken. He This article featuresfrom excerpts a March 22,2010 interview NU System Strong inToday’s Land GrantMission state –and does students have a great to get a support institution, the but main the distinction is that the public university. and beginning the have for need the recognized astrong education.higher Nebraskans generous have very been since Nebraska traditionally has agreat heritage of supporting universities. Generally, they’re supported by states. their few exceptions,with very are what we consider public to be University of Nebraska was established, grants, in1869.Land a state –in1867and two years afterthat, theland grant forcountry how that was done. built on that land. There are differentall models across the to help used could be financethe institution, or be it could state to for of use establishing purpose the university. this It today. generations, and we are reaping still benefits the thatof had foresight the to create great this opportunity for future battlesbloody War, Civil inthe but our still, government ofmiddle War Civil the inaweek with three of most the (public) research university inAmerica. leading of model the education higher country: inthis of century. 19th the So, it has created what is world’s the to education, this was which not prior case the to middle the mechanicthe arts,’ that there dimension would apractical be system of education but arts inliberal inagriculture also and education.’ Now, it said that also ‘we’re going to create a and farmers and others, and provide broad access to higher country,in this for sons the and daughters of workers mill going to create asystem, apublic system of education higher publicthe at large. land the grant So really said act ‘we’re wealthy,the to train clerics, but it hadn’t available been for people than historically case. the had been educationhigher is important for amuch broader group of perhaps most the important was to make astatement that educationhigher around world. the It things, but didseveral perhaps, one of most the important events of history inthe ofhistory American education. higher It’s first, the and it is, –is oneact of three the most important events inthe “Because it’s public, state the and government federal the “In Nebraska, five years after the became Act,Morrill we “Originally, government federal the granted land to every “Abraham land the Lincoln signed grant legislation inthe “Higher education aprivilege; had it been for had been “The Morrill known Act also of 1862–theland as grant Opportunities for Nebraska 7 When you enter a building on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Nebraska-Lincoln of the University on a building enter you When University Grant a Land of 1862 established Act Morrill“The the Leading be Objectwhere instruction would in each state fields.” related and in agriculture reallyvery a is special system thing, university “The grant land more make education to model created was grant land The a having modelis grant of land the “Thenotion whole east campus, you’ll find these words on door:the words find these you’ll campus, east when the country the Civil War, of depths in the absolute rooted Owens, John said every in literally itself with way,” war at was Chancellor Vice Harlan and who served NU vice as president 2001 from Resources Natural and Agriculture of the Institute of passed act an 1862, Congress of the summer 2010. “In June until these which then grew into colleges, grant land established that Owens said. today,” universities grant land wonderful county and state federal, through people state’s a for affordable institutions. grant land for support in students to academic programs deliver to only not responsibility, obligation an also having but in the laboratory, and the classroom The Land Grant System: The Land Grant for Nebraska At Work Left: James B. Milliken, President, University of Nebraska (Photo by University University by (Photo Nebraska of University President, Milliken, B. James Left: Campus on East Library Thompson UNL C.Y. the Above: Nebraska) of - James B. Milliken B. - James President Nebraska of University Education is what’s going to make the to make going is what’s Education century when human in the 21st difference basis for everything.” talent is the “In the 21st century, economic economic century, the 21st “In a year $350 million spend almost “We the make to going what’s is “Education first-rate education, to go to a world-class world-class to a go to education, first-rate a fraction of pay and university research their education. of the cost be to largely going is competitiveness natural the past, In based talent. on to approximation and location resources, and important were a port, transportation the single but today, still important are and talent, human is thing important most talent human for magnets are universities innovation, of activity, creative of hubs and activity. economic of activities development and research on a great It’s Nebraska. of the University at the for activity economic of source everyfor that are estimates The state. and in research invested dollars million generate you a university, at development 30 jobs in the state. than more human century in 21st when the difference everything.” the for basis is talent STRATEGIC DISCUSSIONS FOR nebraska Owens said,Owens now supports of University salaries the the to eachcounty’sservices people. Nebraska’s Unicameral, in two-or three-county partnerships to provide extension in 83of Nebraska’s 93counties other –the 10counties are associated with a county. Extension offices areoperated often,andthat very through is delivery an extension office oftenis delivered very people thethrough to extension said.Owens Theland-grant component the universityof funds from taxpayers the of Nebraska.” door on an enterprise like ifwe this didnot have those important, said. Owens “We simply could not open the of state the its –particularly importance. agricultural in different proportions thebased size on and importance formula.” The formulafunds areallocated to various states money comes to an educational enterprise on a based funding federal the system for entire the where country funds’ and according to about “is Owens, only the of part on dollars.”depend those funds The arecalled ‘formula investmentfederal has grown large so to be that we all more dollars than match. basic the But over time, the the matchmeet “They thenand provide considerably grant programs comes from state the itself,” said. Owens larger “The amount the investmentof traditional in land of Smith-Lever the Act of 1914,Cooperative Extension. supporting research, teaching and later, with adoption the moneyused as areason to get states the interested in interest inadopting tenets the of land the grant act. and lure the of funds played those arole inother states’ That was a huge amount Owensof moneysaid, in1887, and in1887received territory funds. $10,000infederal would invested be research, inagricultural eachstate so decisions. and with that viewpoint, are they likely to make better education gives people abroader viewpoint of world the tomorrow,” he added, said. Owens speaking, Generally competitive today, and it’s going more to be competitive educated population here inNebraska. The world is to anyone requests who information. officesmake university research available, free of charge, county state. inthe every Extension educators inthese University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension officesnearly in university to rest the of eachstate. In Nebraska, there are land grant system “extended” reach the of land the grant live inthat state or territory, but it astep goes further. The system helps to make education affordable forpeoplewho strong as it can possibly be.” statethe through makingUniversity the of Nebraska as have it taken upon themselves to invest future inthe of dollars tax their well-spent, toand be expect that they businesses and farms and ranches and professions, inthe notionthis of people, the taxpayers the work who in said. “It’s of part Nebraska been beginning, from very the to knowledge take to people the of state,” the Owens 8 County government are funds also extremely important, Funds by allocated state the government are evenmore From Owens’ point of view, government federal the The Hatch Act of 1887ensuredthat dollars federal “In economy, aknowledge-based we want astrong, taxpayers’The financial partial support the of grantland in abig way to do that,” he said. supporters. Nebraskans have really stepped up to plate the generosity of its its friends, alumni and its clientele or university is always, always, always found inthe adequate public university and an excellent public Natural Resources alone, said. Owens there’s areturn of Institute $15inthe of Agriculture and indicates that Nebraska for every dollar tax invested, more competitive, added. Owens future,in the however, world the because has become are lives inthe of students.” the Even more needed be will how many scholarships we have and how important they generositythe of Nebraskans has just phenomenal been in “In agriculture and natural resources and related areas, education abit more affordable for students,Owenssaid. for university students are “just huge” inmaking public andin , technology scholarships engineering, so supportthe of corporations and volunteer leaders. emphasisthe is on building and programming robots with STEM education is –which anational In focus. Nebraska, science, technology, engineering and – educational programs to young people areas inthe of scientists by 2013.To achieve that goal, 4-His delivering Ideas.™ is which intended to educate one million new One Million Newcalled Scientists. One Million New country.in the Nationally, 4-HFoundation the has agoal with highest the 4-Hinvolvement capita per of any state along with 10,000volunteers, making Nebraska state the Nebraska has 135,000young people involved in4-H, toallocated various land grant institutions ineachstate. nationalin the 4-Hcharter that is held by Congress and people,” he said. important to programs are these because out worked out. It only gets workedto be always seems over it time problem, but has abudget government state or federal some county, any given day, office.the “On funds to run officespace and county provides offices, eachbut extensionthe workwho in Lincoln faculty of Nebraska- “I totally this difference believe – the between an An independent study by Battelle of Columbus, Ohio It is expensive to and fund deliver university programs Theland grant mission extends to youngpeople, too, Dr. John Owens Opportunities for Nebraska 9 Dr. F. Edwin Harvey Edwin F. Dr. Harvey’s vision is to have a learning community of Morrill Morrill of community a learning have to is vision Harvey’s education provide to up was set institution grant land The that researchers with associating benefit from can Students in a work to want to professor takes a certain kind of It scholars that lives in a dorm together, takes classes and does and takes classes together, in a dorm lives that scholars He very is and in the community. active together things establishing nationally, take the program to like also would grant in each land Program Scholars Morrill Smith a Justin service the premier as of be thought would “It institution. he the country,” across organization engagement civic and said. seen that “we’ve said Harvey and people the common for 100 than more of have we system the giant into blossom just not that doing They’re that. doing are that universities and and females for males, but white for educate to a way the board, across – it’s Americans Native originally free, were institutions grant land The everyone.” a part more become has tuition though Even said. Harvey still the state think it’s “I said he system, the university of be, in not and come can in the state students where university else.” anything sex, or creed gender, race, by fettered way, any programs university and practical research applied, doing are the put “We immediately. involved become to students allow them in the field, put we but in the seats, only not students the action right them into put we and them in the lab put we said. Harvey so they be can involved,” away a to who come Professors said. Harvey institution, grant land discover quickly the mission of unsure university grant land “You service is the the state. mission of the people that to them, to do is you what important learn very how quickly for work ‘I that on mindset early that develop sort of you and them be to back so giving I should Nebraska, of the citizens think “I said. he them,’” to be relevant research my have and think the campus on I encounter the faculty that of most way.” that For more information visit www.unl.edu/sdn/opportunities visit information more For

Teaching students about the land grant mission of the of mission grant the land about students Teaching we and the people, of the universities are “We an undergraduate is Program Morrill Scholars The study Program Morrill in Scholars the students The college grant land the of 1862 established Act Morrill The leadership focus on scholars UNL Morrill said Harvey university through a special program for land grant scholars scholars grant land for a special through program university director Its Nebraska-Lincoln. of the University to unique is so hundreds grows Program Scholars the UNL Morrill hopes provide to founded the system learn about can students of the service as well all as to people, leadership and education the system. who established the man of traits very a important have We that. focus on always should the American to the education provide to responsibility if they’re democracy make only work who can citizens of a UNL Professor Edwin Harvey, F. said educated,” the UNL Morrill of who also is Director Hydrogeology Program. Scholars based the on program leadership and community learning who Vermont, of Morrill Smith service and life Justin of the act established 1862. That of Act the Morrill originated a was Morrill States. in the United system college grant land the time he at Representatives of House the U.S. of member Act. the become Morrill would the that bill wrote was Morrill said. Harvey leadership, a model of as Morrill of the engineers were blacksmiths and son a blacksmith’s the farming for tools and implements creating the time, even beginning, said, Harvey a humble was It community. in worked Morrill well-respected. were blacksmiths though 16, he was when he but a boy, as shop blacksmith’s father’s his (who would Harris Judge a local merchant, for work to went partner). During business later, and mentor Morrill’s become discuss politics to the opportunity took Morrill this time, the common learned how “He in the the store. people with born into not was Morrill said. Harvey thought,” people to college, to him send afford couldn’t father his and wealth a variety of books on reading by himself taught so Morrill thing did the same he Congress, to went he “When subjects. be to a needed the he know things himself to taught – he said. Harvey a senator,” later, and good congressman who might people of the “industrial class” educate to system Morrillotherwise. The an education afford to be able not be should educated class specified industrial the Act that as known arts (now mechanic agriculture, of in the areas exclude military as well as did not engineering), tactics, but was land of acres Thirtythousand study. of fields other a in 1862 as Congress of member each sitting to granted institution. grant land each state’s for foundation to important believes service it’s He politics. and engagement, it why and university grant the land with students re-connect home Morrill’s take to a trip scholars be, so to Morrill came and biography Morrill’s study Vermont, Strafford, of town the five In learned. they’ve what they apply can learn ways 40 students existed, has Program Scholars the Morrill years the program. through gone have

about Land Grant Mission Mission Grant Land about Morrill Scholars Program Educates Students Students Educates Program Scholars Morrill STRATEGIC DISCUSSIONS FOR nebraska 10 Charts courtesy of University of Nebraska By Nkem Kalu A BreakdownoftheUniversity’sBudget NU FundingSources: restricted or designated for uses. specific billion, but more than 60percent of dollars those are funding sources and comparing 1989-1990and 2009-2010. source is spent. Figure 1includes two pie graphs showing and has careful guidelines inplace about how eachfunding tuition, entities, auxiliary funds federal and private gifts Nebraska investment. tax Resources alone generates one $15for dollar of every economic growth. The Institute of Agriculture and Natural of Nebraska, eachstate dollar returns 300percent through university get resources the to momentum? this fuel students are diplomas collecting eachyear. Where the does researchrecognized is conducted, being thousands of built, existing ones are updated, being internationally- University of Nebraska campuses. New buildings are being Where money the does come from, and how is it spent? Altogether, university the system has abudget of $1.9 The University of Nebraska largelyis funded taxes,by According to Office the the of President the of University Signs of momentum on are four the everywhere Federal 12% Auxiliaries 28% 1989-90 Private 10% Net Tuition Appropriations 9% State Other 39% 2% budget, compared to 9percent in1989-1990. Tuition dollars made up 11percent of 2009-2010 the in tuition and fees, according to Office the the of President. Nebraska campuses to rank significantlybelow peers their 1990. budget in2009-2010,compared to 39percent in1989- Extension), administrative support and facility costs. outreachstudent (such services, as Cooperative and general university operations, including instruction, stable, predictable of base support and pay for teaching 50 percent in1989-1990.State-aided funds provide a 2009-2010 NUbudget ($729million), compared to nearly together, accounted they for about 37percent of the “state-aided” funds by university’s the budget office and State-Aided Funds:Taxes andTuition For 2009-2010,resident undergraduate tuition at the Stable state support of allows all University the of State appropriations accounted for 26percent of the State appropriations and tuition are considered to be Designated Federal 18% Other 5% Private 13% 2009-10 Auxiliaries 26% Appropriations State 26% Net Tuition 11% Other 1% Opportunities for Nebraska 11 The Nebraska Sandhills Nebraska The Designated funds amount to 5 percent of the 2009- of 5 percent to amount funds Designated The federal fund part of the expendable restricted federal of expendable the The fund part restricted funds of expendable the fund part private The 2010 budget (about $90 million). These funds come These $90 million). come funds (about 2010 budget clinical research, sponsored of cost the indirect from funds. research Settlement Tobacco and revenues patient clinical activities at and research for pay funds Designated the university. research grants and contracts, the University of Nebraska Nebraska of the University contracts, and grants research pays money gifts.The and endowments Foundation, endowed and fellowships and scholarships research, for professorships. and dollars contract and grant includes category funds budget, 2009-2010 the university’s of 18 percent up makes in 1989-1990. percent 12 to compared 13 percent for accounts and gifts private includes category 10 to compared 2009-2010 budget, the university’s of designated often are gifts Private in 1989-1990. percent specific for purposes, specific buildings new as such for Private travel. student or research purposes,scholarships, agreements. in outlined restrictedfund usesto are gifts Designated Funds For more information visit www.unl.edu/sdn/opportunities visit information more For Federal and private funds together are called are together funds private and Federal Auxiliary funds make up 26 percent (about $483 (about 26 percent up make funds Auxiliary expendable restricted funds because the providers because funds restricted the providers expendable restricted Expendable spent. is their money how designate the university’s of 31 percent for accounted funds in 2009-2010, compared $583 million) (about budget from comes money in 1989-1990. The 22 percent to million) of the 2009-2010 budget, compared to 28 percent 28 percent to compared the budget, 2009-2010 of million) revolving and funds Auxiliary the 1989-1990 budget. of or taxpayer receive do not and self-supporting are funds by used and generated dollars are They support. tuition Nebraska- of University as such entities specific university services, parking housing, student athletics, Lincoln fees. lab and fees course University of Nebraska-Lincoln was 25 percent below below 25 percent was Nebraska-Lincoln of University at Nebraska of University The peer average. UNL’s the and peer its average below 12 percent ranked Omaha below 21 percent was Kearney at Nebraska of University Medical also Center Nebraska of University peers. The its vary college. by rates peers; tuition its below ranks Expendable Restricted Funds: Expendable Restricted Funds: Federal and Private Auxiliary Entities: Self- Supporting Auxiliary Entities: STRATEGIC DISCUSSIONS FOR nebraska The CircleofInnovation Understanding Research– By Garbacz Mary Universities U.S. EconomicPowerHingesonResearch trained workers and finally, economicto growth, Paulsaid. tothen products, new more jobs,alarger number of well- expands to applied research, to then business new creation, Circle of Innovation. That circlebeginswithbasic research, toneed show aprofitsooner, he added. results, isn’t which feasible for private companies that may research projects may 10or take more years to achieve no one is else doing it,” Paul said. Even basic universities have to doresearch is that important. other that “The reason reason university research is development, Paul said. contribute to economic high-paying jobsthat will able to compete for the marketplacein the and morebe competitive will they directly so that benefits students support for research essential, as is strong talent development is Paul added. This jobsofthe future, the educated people to take to supply of apool well- up fast. development –and are catching education, research and technology U.S. and model are investing heavily in But many other countries are duplicating the education, and technology creation of knowledge. new employment opportunities. createwho innovations and innovations turn those into research and for of pool talented, the well-educated people University of Nebraska-Lincoln. That requires support for Chancellor for Research and Economic Development at the oriented and competitive, according to Prem Paul, Vice Unitedthe States must make sure its economy is growth- economic power of and country this to keep momentum, this Universitythe of Nebraska, are largely responsible for the 12 Paul said research is starting point the of what a he calls Talent development is one The U.S. must continue Paul said U.S. the has long world arespected been in leader The top research universitiesthe in United States, including prospers using less water. That changesthe way people live, applied research might create anew hybrid that example of wheat the plant’s genetic makeup astep further, World Wide Web or for electronic those gadgets. Taking the answers that improve way the people live, such for as uses the genetic makeup of awheat plant. questions. One example of research basic is findingthe Paul said. research Basic findsthe also answersscientific to as World the Wide Web of and sorts electronic all gadgets, results major inthe innovations we for take granted, such and support and grow industry, but how dowe communicate sources.energy environment;the water quality and sustainability; and new development of higher-quality for food less cost; improving and product development include biomedical research; Nebraska’s economy.” our young, talented people right here inNebraska and grow companies or by having companies new form, keep then do now is capitalize on that to grow jobs,either with existing genomics, water and energy,” Paul said. “What we to need Applied research Applied research Basic “Not only and science dowe produce dogood products Paul said areas of increasingly important research a powerhouse inmaterial plant science, food, because the creation the because of such ahybrid would save is driven by . It’s research the that water and make it possible to grow crops expands on research basic and finds The University of Nebraska-Lincoln“is in areas where it was not previously Nebraska-Lincoln Work attheUniversityof possible. [Creating wheat anew hybrid 12years, takes according to P. Stephen Baenziger, Ph.D., UNL contribute to economic growth. Eugene W. Price Distinguished who earn good wages, good earn then who Professor of Grains Small require well-trained workers Breeding and Genetics.] Paul said.jobs Those products, into then jobs, such as developing that and converts into those concepts and discoveries transformationalbasic wheat hybrid, takes Applied research, Opportunities for Nebraska 13 Photo Illustration by Adam Wagler and Nkem Kalu Nkem and Wagler Adam by Illustration Photo Teaching, research and extension are the basic three are extension and research Teaching, Cirlce of Innovation graphic on page 12 courtesy of University University of 12 courtesy page on graphic Innovation of Cirlce Research of Office Nebraska-Lincoln of www.unl.edu/sdn/opportunities visit information more For is very, very important that we have good teachers in those good teachers have we that very important very, is those pursue to people young inspiring we’re that and areas called Million One 4-H initiative The added. he careers,” the 100+ the goal is of Ideas™ New Million One Scientists. and territories its and in the U.S. institutions grant land by new million scientists one of the education promotes the through administered 4-H program, 2013. Nebraska’s one has office, Extension Nebraska-Lincoln of University of in three one involving programs, leading the nation’s of 10,000 volunteers. as well as people young Nebraska’s those often, Nebraska-Lincoln; of the University of missions being every project Almost research combined. are missions said, Paul Nebraska-Lincoln, of the University at conducted students graduate and students undergraduate involves only “Not professors. with shoulder-to-shoulder working helping the very they’re they from learning best, but are Connecting added. he research new knowledge,” create to stored is “if said; he research important, is education and our missed we then offices, in professors’ the shelves on That’s impact. an make and people educate to opportunity very important.” very, in. It’s comes extension where The United States needs to make sure there is a future is a future there sure make needsto States United The “In the last 10 years, we were blessed with our faculty our blessed with were we 10 years, the last “In do the research, to be to able resources us gives “Money workforce that understands STEM education, Paul said – said Paul education, STEM understands that workforce as ability “Our Math. and Engineering Science, Technology, – it in the new economy competing state, our – and a nation to people how important food is?” Paul said. The challenge challenge The said. food is?” Paul important how people to in teaching is research of the importance in communicating urban food; in larger, people produce takes to it what people the produce to it takes what know don’t often communities said. food Paul they eat, faculty and the top-talent attracted We’ve very hard. working Paul here,” enterprise in research seen a growth is we’ve what that; look at to way one UNL is at funding Research said. in $50 million than less from went funding UNL research said. in 2009, Paul $122.5 million than more 2000 to the year compete to position in a better are we also us tells it but Those added. hard-to- Paul grants,” veryfor hard-to-get awarded are of dollars, millions many for often grants, get carry to the the out ability who have researchers top to making are faculty members a result, As work. proposed said, Paul publishing, and awards receiving new discoveries, jobs. into those assets will now be converted and The Mission to Educate Scientists STRATEGIC DISCUSSIONS FOR nebraska Jobs, KeepingTalent inNebraska Nebraska InnovationCampusMeansMore vision is realized, it’ll impact entire the state of Nebraska.” capitalize on research and create jobs,” Paul said. “When that know who howexperts to at look products (new) can of culture content the so and inscience business the experts create that of type environment, that of type space, that type area.the Research Triangle Park has created more than 42,000jobsin and Durham, home to more than three million people. The North Carolina area tri-city inthe of Chapel Hill, Raleigh tech industries. TheResearch Triangle Park is located in has expanded to include aconcentration of various high- locationthe of many silicon chip manufacturers and now said. Silicon Valley was inCalifornia originally known as comeideas and go back and they then test out,” them Paul where people come of together All asudden new the to talk. what it really took was creating aspacenear universities the there are anumber of strong universities area, inthe but students at . Carolina; yet another is creation the by of some anotherCalifornia; is TheResearch Triangle Park in North and they’ve successful. One is inSilicon been Valley, rubbing shoulders, there’s arelationship built.” being professors,“The students,scientists from companies,they’re there’s not once-a-year or year-interaction,” twice-a he said. corporate right sector next to university, the Paul said. “So waybest to foster apublic-private partnership is to have a of and UNLfaculty research growth. Studies indicate the public-private partnership that capitalizes on expertise the Paul said. confident,be we to haveneed vision and we toinvest,”need jobsandnew other opportunities for Nebraska. “We to need where inventions the are produced, and well that for bodes researchthat find the majority the impactof the is in area comes impact in,Paul inthe of specialize who said. Experts state’sthe economy is where Nebraska Innovation Campus Development at University the of Nebraska-Lincoln. asked Prem Paul, Vice Chancellor for Research and Economic jobs and grow our economy and keep our young people here?” research? Why not capitalize on research and convert that into national championships why and infootball not volleyball, in about newopportunitiesforNebraska and EconomicDevelopmentexcited UNL’s Vice Chancellorfor Research 14 By Garbacz Mary “I Nebraska the think Innovation Campus vision is to “If you read about what happened inSilicon Valley… There are national precedents forthistype ofdevelopment, Thevision of Nebraska InnovationCampus is to create a Keeping talented young people inNebraska and growing “Number one, ifastate of 1.8million people can win research.” acrossthat world the is necessary inorder to implement that with less waterfood and second, to produce human the talent things –one, research that relates to how we can grow more institutethe have will an impact by asource being for two component,” agricultural the Perlman thathope is said. “The torespect water, there was no one location on that focused work and create more permanent offices. Charitable Foundation to allow institute the to expand its a $50million foundingfrom gift DaughertytheRobert B. on UNLcity the campus. In April, university the received inexistencehas been for two years, with atemporary office Nebraska Innovation Campus, Perlman said. The institute Nebraska Innovation Campus could same dothe thing. there’s reason that to think companies every locate who on workable field inthe or the farm,”on said, he addingthat field the conditionsto scale the whether see research to is Lincoln, but we have facilities across state the that attempt Agriculture and Natural Resources here –we doresearch in agriculture. of companies those and government on focus facilities will Perlman said, adding that it’s reasonable that to some expect offthe importance of agriculture the to state of Nebraska,” andenergy water. Those arethat activities obviously, play contribute to growth of state’s the economy. hirealso Nebraskans, highly-trained Perlman said, will which undoubtedly bring some talented people to Nebraska, but will as well as government companies facilities. These will to attractis expected alarge number of private companies, University of Nebraska-Lincoln. physically also city the andwill align east campuses of the of Nebraska, Perlman said. Nebraska Innovation Campus Nebraska research to create growth and jobsfor people the Nebraska Innovation Campus is to leverage University of Nebraskathe State Fair inLincoln.basic The concept behind develop 1.8million gross square feet on former the site of implementation of Nebraska Innovation campus, will which more people there are, less the of aburden it is to eachof us.” “Anyone works who contributes to state the the so base, tax Perlman, Chancellor of University the of Nebraska-Lincoln. helps state inthe everyone of Nebraska,” said Harvey tax base,agriculture UNL Chancellorexplainsimpacton “While there is alot of work going on around world the in global The Water for InstituteFood be located will on “If you’re inagriculture, it’s just like Institute the of “A major emphasis of Innovation Campus food, be will The developmenttake 20 will or 25 years to complete and Perlman thatto expand base with tax the expects “Any economic growth anywhere state inthe of Nebraska Opportunities for Nebraska 15 - Harvey Perlman, Chancellor Perlman, - Harvey Nebraska-Lincoln of University Any economic growth anywhere in the state of Nebraska helps everyone in the state of Nebraska. “We didn’t get into this to compete with Silicon Valley or to compete compete to or Valley Silicon with compete this to into get didn’t “We these say can we in history that point a great be to at happen “We the includes mission grant land Nebraska’s of University The and in creating a role play to continue NU can that hopes Milliken Nebraska, into coming are people even though that said Milliken you force; work educated need an you talent; need the human “You of be to comprised projected is Campus Innovation Nebraska of University of is the in Omaha part Institute Kiewit Peter The For more information visit www.unl.edu/sdn/opportunities visit information more For JJR by provided image Innovation with The Research Triangle Park,” said James B. Milliken, President President Milliken, B. James said Park,” Triangle Research The with that in areas compete to want “We Nebraska. of the University of the where in areas and the region and Nebraska to important are the – hence, advantages competitive and strength great has university said. he water,” food, fuel and of Campus Innovation for themes also they’re but Nebraska, of the University of strengths the great are important most now…the right the in world issues important the most feeding of these issues solve we “How said. Milliken global challenges,” the next over 50 percent by grow to going that’s population a world the world for double to going is the food where demand 50 years, to available are water and land of amount the same and population fits “This said. he that is something the world,” the food for produce to Scottsbluff from Nebraska of the interests with well tremendously Omaha.” and research four have “We said. Milliken program, extension hubs which are Nebraska, of the state across located centers extension of strength of the part That’s innovation. activities and intellectual of of 1862 established Act Morrill The said. he institution,” a land-grant creates agriculture Nebraska each state. in institution grant a land of in the areas be to globally important Nebraska for the opportunity techniques and fuel sources sustainable food production, into research water. the world’s sustaining conserving and for have we “If Nebraska. throughout activity economic support to helping in people for opportunities have we where activity economic robust our for and internships have to students our for places and Nebraska we Lincoln; and in Omaha just need it don’t we work, to graduates said. he Nebraska,” of the state throughout need it a attend they after the state who leave people too many are there he leave, People drain.” – the “brain university or college Nebraska find the kind cases, they can’t in many opportunity; economic for said, take. to themselves prepared jobs they have of to need new business you and that; of out grow to need businesses Milliken to students,” those opportunities offer to Nebraska to come as much as a catalyst It’s a way. is Campus “Innovation explained. anything.” is a great There said. Milliken sector businesses, private two-thirds said, he campus, a college on or in, around locating to attractiveness to ready people talented of source the ready is attraction the main but willtake the good be jobs that available. Technology to rise the Scott gave institute That system. Nebraska in located now are businesses that are There said. Milliken Center, and center; a conference is there before; here not were that Nebraska college business its moving is Nebraska-Omaha of the University now effect expects Milliken added. he catalyst see to there, kind of the same Campus. Innovation Nebraska with NU President looks at global challenges challenges global at looks President NU research university’s to related fuel and water – food, strengths STRATEGIC DISCUSSIONS FOR nebraska development,” Sheridan said. are nurturing, that promote learning their and optimal healthy environments for children that are supportive, that most to people: education, child-rearing and health… has concerns about children, she added. Nebraskans,” she said. Everyone, regardless of wherelive, they hands-on. It’s applied…it’s very much very about lives the of National Center for Research on Rural Education are very and and Schools research the doing be we through will the here inour Center for Research on Children, Youth, Families where is located. R²Ed “The the of workthat we do Research on Children, Youth, Family and (CYFS) Schools for five years. Education that on keep R²Ed Sciences UNLcampus the will grant from U.S. the Department of Education’s Institute of was established result in2009,the of anearly-$10 million Center for Research on Rural Education The center (R²Ed). PsychologySchool and Director of nation’s the only National Professor of Educational Psychology at UNL,Professor of Holmes University Professor and Willa Cather Emeritus urban education, according to Susan Sheridan, George place to research strengths the and and of needs rural both and Omaha than rest inthe of state, the Nebraska is aperfect schools. Evenrural though there are more students inLincoln majoritythe of remaining the youngsters inNebraska attend Wherever TheyLive Helping KidsLearn,GrowandConnect– 16 By Garbacz Mary “Our work is really about real life and things the that Sheridan director is also of UNL’s Nebraska Center for That meansthat withthe exception Lincolnof and Omaha, Eighty-fivepercent of Nebraska’s schoolare districts rural. (Photo by University of Nebraska-Lincoln) - Dr. Susan Sheridan Improved EducationforChildren Support andTraining forTeachers, urban areas. areas inrural barriers the that already are addressed being in another. work the to bridge She begin expects of will R²Ed is one issue; concerns such as behavior and achievement are able to create relationships these and partnerships. Logistics said. There are also other issuesthat the wayget in being of about away 30miles aschoolmaybebeing from home,” she connections across families and schoolsyou’re when talking areasin rural and in real the difficulties creating these but have they never tested that approach schools. inrural together goals and to set develop plans to help succeed, kids in urban and suburban areas, bringing families and schools children. Sheridan and leadership her R²Ed team have worked workthey together to address concerns share they for their oftenschool districts areseverely understaffed these in areas. education is anational priority, Sheridan said, and rural engineering and mathematics –known as STEM. STEM school and schoolstudents’ high inscience, technology, skills in kindergarten through third and grade improving middle research-basednew classrooms. intheir methods advantage of andapply training this will and other services teachers.their More than 500Nebraska teachers take will providewill support and training schools and to rural “We know alot about challenges the that families face on focus supporting also will R²Ed teachers and families as Two goals are R²Ed improving reading for skills students The NationalCenter forResearch on Education Rural Opportunities for Nebraska 17 Besides Sheridan, the R²Ed core leadership team team leadership Besides theR²Ed core Sheridan, other and partnering with doing we’re “Thethat work work. guides her that and families, is passion Sheridan’s learn and function and and live and work “Children well extend children for “Theopportunities learning For more information visit www.unl.edu/sdn/opportunities visit information more For opportunities for camaraderie, connections, supports and and supports connections, camaraderie, for opportunities ascribeto will want teachers that learning of communities said. Sheridan to,” Nugent, Gwen and Kunz Gina Glover, Todd includes on Research for the Center with all researchers UNL Bovaird, James Schools, and and Families Youth, Children, However, faculty psychology member. a UNL educational areas. other many with partnerships are there a very represents campus around science researchers come that researchers educational of marriage unique of the area from people content with center, our from disciplines,” hard-science other or or engineering different with the table to come “People said. Sheridan creating are of expertisewe and areas different strengths, have would us of none that different new and something independently.” worked we had create to been able a about learning that career in her early discovered She the child. helping to essential was situation family child’s that teachers with consulting a new model for I created “So and process in the whole very families connected squarely she that,” around program research a whole then created said. are and there environments, different in many grow connections, the betweenstronger them. The connections children,” for are there nets safety and support the more said. she with concerned really we’re If a school building. beyond think to about very broadly have we children, educating occur.” allwhere those opportunities learning - Susan Sheridan - Susan Education Rural on Research for Center National the of Director and Professor Our work is really about real life and the things that matter most to people: education, child-rearing and health… healthy environments for children that are supportive, that are nurturing, that promote their learning and optimal development “There are a lot of differences between urban schools schools urban between differences of a lot are “There and snowstorms as Logistical such challenges math teachers ofteachers, science teams often are There in rural teachers high-quality keeping and Attracting and rural schools. One is resources,” Sheridan said. Urban Urban said. Sheridan rural resources,” is One and schools. specialists more and resources more have to tend schools said. she academic concerns, and both behavior address to geographical large talking about rural we’re schools, “In area – an children of small groups separating distances in together are 300 miles. All span the students might that the consolidated because they have buildings of a couple these kids.” for opportunities educational school in from kids away keep can agricultural schedules physical are factors limiting Some said. she rural areas, school. and between home the distance like challenges, be can it students, for a consideration only not is Distance meetings parent-teacher when planning a consideration partnerships. close home-school creating and in a rural but school system, urban in an counselors and the entire for science teacher one be just might there area, a middle for teacher math one or K-12 school system, fewer it is only high curriculum. school not school and “So specialists fewer and access, limited it’s but resources, said. she connections,” creating of logistical challenges in research and said, Sheridan a challenge, is schools professional and support teacher R²Ed will emphasize for resources build to ways as well as development, and teachers example, For in rural areas. teachers ideas share to the chance have schools specialists in larger the science say, of members other with plans lesson and in rural some teachers to available isn’t option That team. technology ways discussing is so the R²Ed group areas, the of some among virtual lounges teacher create can these new create can we hoping rural “We’re schools. Urban-Rural Differences Urban-Rural STRATEGIC DISCUSSIONS FOR nebraska 18 card to advising the session. She enters into computer the the said. that’s where someone to assist and educate is necessary,” she older than 65and are not comfortable using computers. “So However,needs. Holland said, many beneficiaries are much which determine beneficiaries plansbest suit individual covers your drugs.” is one of key things, the as well as finding planthat adrug that may cause aproblem,” them Holland said. “Affordability and help ifthere are see them any redtheplan flagsdrug in educational information that we can, point out options their planwhich to “Our choose. jobis to provide best the them one may save some people hundreds month. of dollars every said, carefully so examining plans drug and choosing right the a great month of deal money every for prescription she drugs, advising session is usually necessary. Some people are paying beneficiary’sthe budget. Plans changeyear,every so an annual planwhich covers and works drugs also needed the with best Holland’sdrugs. jobis determine to help eachbeneficiary each offering insurance coverage for different prescription D advisor. contact information for nearest the extension Medicare Part extensionlocal office be given the direct timeany they’ll and would like to advantage take of assistance this their can call enrollment inNovember period and December. People who educators statewide counsel beneficiaries theduring open round to Medicare beneficiaries, but additional extension Chappell and Oshkosh.educators These offer assistanceyear- Tekamah; Jeanne Murray is inAlliance; and Carla Mahar is in educator and is located inWeeping Water; Loftis Mary is in Department of Insurance. Holland is trained the extension Information Program (SHIIP) through Nebraska the aretrained Seniorthe specifically by Health Insurance Extension educator, is one of four Nebraska educators who Extension, offers which one-on-one,personal assistance. that question is through University of Nebraska-Lincoln forbest One way me?” people can obtain help inanswering D was an way easy to answer question the “which plan is prescription plans drug to Medicare beneficiaries. Medicare Part D, offers which avariety of cost-saving until January 1,2006.That’sCongresswhen introduced 1965, but coverage for prescription wasn’t drugs included Extension Offers Advice Offers Extension Part DPlan:UNL Choosing aMedicare By Sarah Van Dalsem Holland to bring his asks eachbeneficiary or her Medicare Medicare’s website includes plan adrug finder,which helps However, extension educators not will tell abeneficiary Holland said Medicare Part Dconsists plans, drug of several AnnMary Holland, aUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln What Medicare didn’t beneficiaries from get Medicare Part Medicare national insurance health available has been since For more information visit www.unl.edu/sdn/opportunities the beneficiary’sthe economy,” local Hollandsaid. dollars,becomethen, $646,000. “Those available in be used to plansdrug or were enrolled inaplan, saving atotal of nearly counseled 2,295clients and 938either changed prescription offall 2008and summer the of 2009,extension educators beneficiaries theirand families caregivers.or the Between late in2009,assisting December more than 1,800Medicare than 100enrollment events mid-November between and people with application the these process. have they – all to dois apply. Extension educators can help subsidy” and Holland said there is adollar benefit forthem is an income bracket above Medicaid a“low income called handed money…they don’t feel that’s right.” However, there 80s,” are she said. “They proudpeople. They don’t want be to livedwho through , the are they so upper intheir monthly budgets. “A lot of people age inthis group are folks prescription plan drug can make abig differencetheir in have limited resources, she said, and choosing right the into extension the system,” Holland said. outreachthe that benefitsthem most, that’sand already built for qualify who available low-income subsidies. “Extension is Administration Security to people identify Social is trying and that’s is looking for Security too, what she Social said. The isneeds to get out area inarural and with meet individuals, and extension one,” is agood Holland said. One of Medicare’s invent Medicare, partnership the Nebraska the between SHIIP said. helpthe gaps in fill and whatremember said,” was Holland information complex can be and hard to understand. “They or spouse comes along to an advising session the because well. as change, Prices of continue drugs to change, she said, premiums so screen displays plans drug the available for that individual. (including dosages) and beneficiary’s the thethen zip code; person’s Medicare information, prescriptions the take they The extension Medicareeducators in Nebraska held more Most Medicare beneficiaries are 65 or older and often “While University of Nebraska Extension didnot certainly Holland says it’s abonus whenever an adult child, caregiver Mary Ann Holland Ann Mary Opportunities for Nebraska 19 Dr. RandyDr. Cantrell “If I get three people in a room to have a conversation that that a conversation have to in a room people three I get “If others on sneaking up avoid should residents said Cantrell a commitment also need have to in town outlets Media a multi-generational a part of who are people said Cantrell For more information visit www.unl.edu/sdn/opportunities visit information more For Open Communication Aids Understanding Open Communication they haven’t had before, I’m engaging in development, I’m I’m in development, engaging I’m before, had they haven’t folks “If Cantrell. said opportunities,” more possible making then angry, and entrenched become to themselves allow some of occur the possibility and don’t those conversations limited.” is forward, move to way some compromise, kind of giving also avoid should and actions or information with their without made was believe a decision to a reason people acceptable aren’t deals” “Backroom consideration. or input can people where the table on be put must – the debate added. he participate, educators Extension argument. an all sides of presenting to people help to counties in most also available UNL are from in the communities, issues tough all sides of understand to is educators of extension role The suggested. Cantrell added. he based research, on information provide “It’s very common among newcomers in rural communities in rural communities newcomers among very common “It’s the with me provide didn’t it but here, ‘I’m say, to it I thought that in the community participate to opportunity so I’ll I think and do recognized, what skills aren’t My would. Cantrell. said try else and someplace go again,’” is newcomers but if they upset, get leave to likely not are family a If the community. into integrate if theywill cannot leave new attracting population, its grow to hopes community stay to them a reason giving and the community to people goals. important are Engaging Newcomers

many into over spill can conflicts small communities, In store runs the hardware that the guy the I let fact that “If Becausevery rural can become conflict to people, personal trying of the enhance to the business about go you “If the people, among try to a division mend order and In help only not celebrations active hold that Communities Many rural Nebraska communities are focused on progress focused progress on are communities rural Nebraska Many and overnight happen doesn’t rural development However, Cantrell. said anywhere,” to exist conflict for common “It’s an is it that so common are disagreements Community arise can residents among opinion of differences so, Even By Sarah Van Dalsem Van Sarah By

Small Communities Communities Small Handling Rural Conflict Can Make or Break or Break Make Can Conflict Rural Handling Moving Past Conflict facets of life, he said. said. he life, facets of a buy to ability my affect spouse her or his on cheating is between existed my that issue family if some or hammer, my willingness affect ago 20 years their family and family kind of become really things do business…these to Cantrell. said problematic,” in a rural community communication and unity the need for among the differences Resolving especiallyis important. to step the first is said, Cantrell members, community vision. community a common reaching in a life of the quality enhance and viability economic on agreement sort of some have to have thensetting, you to be to able have “You said. he going,” you’re direction what forward.” move and behind you things put or gatherings community holding suggests Cantrell who will people work of a network build help to celebrations in the future. together in a residents longtime new and engage but heal divisions, activity. common and growth, with residents concentrating on attracting and and attracting on concentrating residents with growth, and and businesses strong developing people, young retaining infrastructure. the community’s improving without happen doesn’t likely most it cities, in larger like just said Randy in community, the people among conflict some Rural the Nebraska with professor extension an Cantrell, Nebraska-Lincoln. of the University at Initiative up we set how Conflict’s problems. we solve how “Conflict’s agreements.” to come to negotiations the for basis UNL, at rural other researchers and Cantrell for study of area believes Cantrell the nation. across in institutions as well as the make needs to be a community to successful, that and the the good community of for together work to decision external communication. and internal improving to commit a vision to create community the for is steps the first of One – the residents of percentage a large unites that future its for in invest and change invite to residents compels that a vision the community. vs. rural urban taxes, ideas, including issues, many over said. Cantrell personalities, just – or schools STRATEGIC DISCUSSIONS FOR nebraska that beyond classroom.” the education here at University the of Nebraska and help extend she added. “It’s our jobin4-Hto our take science-based “We provide applied, learning experiences,” experiential capitaper participation rates nation, inthe Birnstihlsaid. and 10,000volunteers, giving Nebraska one of highest the innovation.” 4) Ensure that U.S. the is premier the place world inthe for scientists and engineers from U.S. the both and abroad; and research; 3)Develop, recruit and retain top students, strengthen nation’s the commitment to long-term, basic K-12 mathematics and education; science 2)Sustain and recommendations: theRAGS Thatcalled – book – makesreport four and Employing for America aBrighter Economic Future. Rising titled Abovebook Gathering the Storm: Energizing said. she generation of scientists, engineers and specialists,” technology are career opportunities. That’sthe goal. To createthe next “Ifinsects. can get they excited about whole this field,there learning, including inscience-focused kids wind power and technology.” Birnstihl said 4-Hhas other projects to engage teaches applications the them of math and engineering and have robot 4-Hclubs,” she said. “What it does teach It them? in commercial businesses, we have robot clubs inschools, we robot clubs at and Boys Girls Club sites, we have robot clubs have robot started clubs on campus and in counties. We have technology, ifyou can make it fun!” Birnstihlsaid. “They build design, kids andin which program robots. apply SET through skills the Nebraska 4-H program, hands-on, she said. Thousands of Nebraska 4-H members (SET) to is it’s designed teach to science so kids and fun institutions United inthe States and its territories. That national initiative extends acrosstheland grantall we wanted to engage amillion young people,” she said. New Scientists. One Million New Ideas meant ™,which would mean to next the generation. excited about science, engineering and math, and what that years ago to share concerns that young people were not said she andof her several national counterparts met several of UNLExtension and Nebraska State 4-HAdministrator, consider careers sciences. inthe byset national 4-Hadministrators more so young people will scientists U.S. inthe by 2013.It’s an ambitious goal, but one new scientistsby2013inscience,engineeringandtechnology. Nebraska 4-HProgramisworkingtoachievethenationalgoalofeducatingonemillion 20 4-H inNebraska By Sarah Van Dalsem One MillionNewScientists.Ideas.™ Nebraska’s 4-H program engages 135,000 young people “1) Increase America’s by talent pool vastly improving In National 2007,the Academy of published Sciences a love,“They love, lovescience and engineering and Science,The Engineering 4-H and Technology program “We for agoal set ourselves and was goal One the Million Birnstihl, AssociateElizabeth and Dean Associate Director That’sthe national – educate 4-H to goal one million new For more information visit www.unl.edu/sdn/opportunities young is successful our people be job.” have to help encourage them, successful. to them Helping be “I we can think help young people dream, and we Ithink , going to , leadingworld the intechnology. leading inmultiple areas –findingcures forcancer and said. our next leadersand we to need prepare to them lead,” she want to help young people to learn are thrive and they grow; its longstanding animal and science nutrition projects. “We and citizenship,engineering and technology; inaddition to on:goal, 4-Hfocuses careers; healthy lifestyles; science, of next the generation,” Birnstihlsaid. To achieve that said. people know what it’s like on to be auniversity campus, she 4-H and encourages visits to college campuses young so interests. Additionally, University the of Nebraska embraces and havingcurriculum volunteers that nurture members’ program to three things –getting excited, kids having agood members go education. on to post-secondary educationhigher and currently, 96percent of Nebraska 4-H time, that, she said. 4-Hprogram the Besides emphasizes of university the to extend learning the to out-of-school and careers beyond classroom, the using resources the Birnstihl hopes future the show will young these people One of 4-Hslogans the is “Step up to responsibilities the Birnstihl attributes success the of Nebraska the 4-H Nebraska 4-Hmembers study science, entrepreneurship Dr. Elizabeth Birnstihl holds arobot like the ones in the 4-HRobotics project Opportunities for Nebraska 21 Dr. Janos Zempleni Janos Dr. At some point, it may be possible to have large-scale large-scale have be to possible may it point, some At have lab in his who the work people and Zempleni in that positioned uniquely is Nebraska think UNL and “I expects UNL Extension Zempleni that Increasingly, and also comes with increased risk risk increased with disease also comes and cardiovascular spina as birth with defects such children birth to giving of can in the change “this little but said, Zempleni bifida,” you is this about The beauty be in the lab. easily characterized supplementing disease this enhanced by risk eliminate can is that a change kind of really so it’s folate, diet with your nutritionally.” address easy to and about know to intriguing all disease not but said, disease, Zempleni for testing genetic people some Additionally, nutrition. to willrisk be related will diseases pose be to predisposed that ethical dilemmas. for or disorders psychiatric for screening example, For or employability for eligibility individual’s an limit might want really “we said, Zempleni reason, that For insurance. nutrition to limited are that polymorphisms this to limit to this very dietary because they address can easily by simply intervention.” – biotin that demonstrating research of area an pioneered gene articulate to certain to – binds a B vitamin aspects “The said. DNA he repair, DNA and expression DNA and specificallyto cancer research my this relates of said. he repair,” produced. are the foods in the U.S. of most this where is we breeders, animal and plant of this critical mass have We agricultural business have we behind us, the legislature have the Nebraska of the advent with now Of course, behind us. of layer another adds really that Campus, Innovation said. Zempleni group,” our to opportunity people to nutrigenomics will explain to be able educators a well- of the role with along who need the information, health. balanced diet in overall For more information visit www.unl.edu/sdn/opportunities visit information more For

Zempleni said human genetic makeup is 99.9 percent 99.9 percent is makeup genetic human said Zempleni one of one-tenth in specificgene that one example, For of increased risk with comes gene in the “Thischange Imagine the day when you’ll find out the diseases you may may diseasesthe you out find when you’ll the day Imagine trying do – as to we’re what disease of – that’s “Prevention predisposes makeup identify which genetic really “We individual have team the nutrigenomics of Members are researchers nutrigenomics the independent of Most By Sarah Van Dalsem Van Sarah By

Nutrigenomics Nutrigenomics Planning Your Meals to Save Your Life: Life: Your Save to Meals Your Planning identical, but that remaining one-tenth of one percent is what what is percent one of one-tenth remaining that but identical, can one percent of one-tenth That everyone different. makes disease and vitamins nutrients, for implications major have risk. the of in the metabolism role important an plays percent carries individual an If a B vitamin. which is folate, vitamin this – called – in specific a polymorphism change a minor less much this gene by produced the makes it gene, individual’s that enhancing dramatically explained, he stable, consume people most Although folate. for requirement in thetesting foods specificgenetic they eat, folate adequate folate. who needs more will indicate get in your lifetime – and the foods you can eat to prevent prevent to eat can the foods you – and lifetime in your get them. expensive more curing disease,opposed to much which is said personal tragedy,” more much with comes course, of and, Sciences Health and Nutrition of Professor Zempleni, Janos a heads Zempleni Nebraska-Lincoln. of the University at – one Nutrigenomics for Gateway calledUNL team Nebraska research. such on focusing in the world groups a few just of identify dietary disease increased we to and risk you be can used minimize the diseaseto that risk,” interventions is nutrigenomics of the though study Even explained. he beginning to are team his and Zempleni young, relatively in lives long live people some why as such mysteries solve so lucky. aren’t while they others eat, what of spite between nutrients the interactions study specialties and gene regulate nutrients – how individual’s an and unfold, to continues their work As said. Zempleni expression, a variety of for risk willpeople at learn whether they are be born with may diseases, whether as their children well as about includes birthteam specific the said defects. Zempleni at both departments, 12 different from 30 faculty members Team Center. Medical Nebraska of the University at and UNL , animal science, specializemembers in plant biochemistry, sciences and biological science, nutritional and calls “hard Zempleni what specialties, as well other as among ethnogenetics in genetics, working scientists” bench-top core, regulation. gene and – the organizations major three from grants funded by Science Foundation the National Health, of Institute National Agriculture. of Department States the United and Understanding the Science STRATEGIC DISCUSSIONS FOR nebraska “Food fromThought” “Impacting theWorld ThreeTimes aDay”and Phrases showrelevanceofUNL foodscience,processingresearch on aHealthier You Food ScienceandTechnology –Focusing By Garbacz Mary free labfree setting; and on agrainsfocuses who specialist, research on effects the of ina germ- inmucosal ,a specialist performs who providingalso that information industry; to food the iswho researching microorganisms the gut, inthe but for an individual; inintestinal aspecialist , researching what microorganisms work way inabeneficial including inprobiotics aspecialist and prebiotics, is who intargetedhired members faculty specialize who areas, individual’s system processes nutrients. the Flores has and conditions, with what aperson eats and how that individual,”the he said. for individual the –how one of type nutrient is by absorbed placetake intestinal inthe “We tract. are focusing on food thatlearned many as well as nutrient diseases, absorption, microorganisms and than cellsbody inthe it has been Flores explained that intestinal the contains tract more is one of most the exciting things happening right now.” ‘farm to gut,’” Flores said. “‘Gut’ is intestinal and biology consumed. how an individual person is affectedwhenare certain foods of an avant garde department,” Flores said, focusing on andtraditional science department food technology to more student-made and cheese icecream. on UNLeast the campus, know where locals you go to buy Center. are Both located in The ProcessingComplexFood from Thought” is associatedwith TheFood Processing of Department the of and Food Science Technology; “Food fortechnology humans, but for companion animals as well. graduate programs for students not only and science infood are more successful. It means also undergraduate and safety,food individuals healthier and businesses food that explained,be but impact the of work their means better conducting kinds the of complex research that to beg his dream is to make capital Lincoln food the of world. the individual. As director of UNLFood Processing the Center, department’s person ahealthier make every will faculty andScience Technology, he dreams that work the of the Universitythe of Nebraska-Lincoln Department of Food 22 Recent studies associate diabetes, as well as other diseases “We have moved traditionally from ‘farm the to table’ to “In terms of research, we have moving been from avery “Impacting World the Three Day”Times a the is motto Under Flores’ leadership, top UNLscientists are Rolando Flores dreams big. As department of head Ag Products,SupportingEntrepreneurs Food ProcessingCenter– Adding Value to percent…their proposals have funded.” been The Food proposals,” he said. “Last year, we had asuccess rate of 100 strategic planning, feasibility analysis and inwriting in terms of transfer, technology financial management, economic development. “We provide support to individuals value.” issue of value-added. By doing processing, you increase the forsells more money than unprocessed the corn. “That’sthe Flores said. For example, corn processed into cornflakes was to create value for Nebraska’s products, agricultural UNL Food Processing Center early in the goal 1980s, the a unique lab, he added, that is known worldwide. department that identifiesallergens,” (food) Floressaid. It is and “We seafood. have unique program avery here inthe tomethods test for presence the of allergens such as nuts andindustry governmental organizations indeveloping toadded foods create foods,” functional he said. area…identifying fertile nutraceuticalsvery that could be have researched been extensively at UNL.“It’s creating a such as oil, and antioxidantsbeans,both which of indry Examplesdisease. of nutraceuticals are Omega 3fatty acids, have proven been inpreventing useful to be or treating specialization. Nutraceuticals are elements of that foods pathogenskilling that could cause Flores illness, said. processesthe inplace inproduction facilities are effective in department is where testing is done to determine whether Flores said. AFood Safety Pilot and Plant Security inthe and preventing what aterrible could contamination,” be programs to keep facilities their clean for processing food with members faculty inanimal science, insetting up workswho companies with food and assists along them, area of outreach, or extension. “We have member afaculty and science department, food technology in the it’s an also Agriculture before coming to UNLin2006. research engineer agricultural with U.S. the Department of grain from science Kansas State University and worked as a departments, colleges and campuses. Flores has aPh.D. in and science with otherconnect food technology the NU of work that on focus individual, the Flores said, and also starches and carbohydrates. These arefundamental areas The basicThe mission of TheFood Center Processing is When Nebraska’s state senators voted to establish the The department’s programallergy worksfood closelywith Nutraceuticals, Flores said, is another departmental Food safety is not only an area of microbiology research Opportunities for Nebraska 23 Above: Dr. Rolando Flores Rolando Dr. Above: poster & Technology Science Food of a UNL Department Below: “We pride ourselves in having state-of-the-art pilot pilot state-of-the-art in having ourselves pride “We supports and trains FoodCenter Processing The students in university which dairyThe plant, to training offers FoodCenter Processing The of levels four of consists said, Flores The training, For more information visit www.unl.edu/sdn/opportunities visit information more For Processing Center offers four phases of training to of training phases four offers Center Processing food-related to testing laboratory entrepreneurs; services to development and research and businesses; companies. equipment sophisticated new, and said, Flores plants,” ultrafiltration extruders, as a reverse-osmosis such fluidized bed dryer a and a vibratory system, high-pressure The unit. processing high-pressure pasteurization allows example, for unit, processing technology is That heat. of instead pressure with which is instance, for used guacamole, in packaged the retains and safe is temperature, room at displayed color. and flavor product’s food- improving or starting who are entrepreneurs the businesses the items tests and businesses related for rent charges and manages center The produce. facilities, use the to who center’s wish customers and maintain those help funds and said, Flores equipment. sophisticated that support space also rents ice cream, cheese and manufacture cheeseseveralof are “Therecases entrepreneurs. to learned their trade here,” that in Nebraska makers ofthe some inworking “They said. started first Flores the farmer’s to their then products took plants, pilot veryis a This direct later. weeks of a couple market economic promoting and in value-added connection development.” also global to entities but in Nebraska, entrepreneurs simultaneous featuring videoconferencing, through the for a fee pay Participants translation. language said. he training, the In nationwide. participants draw that workshops determine are whether they entrepreneurs level, first the In the market. on a product putting to committed the center’s with works the entrepreneur level, second is Thelevel third product. the fine-tune to consultants Omaha, and in Lincoln hosted conference a national and brokerage as such specificissues presenting he said, fourth level, The products. of transportation entrepreneurs established for training will provide an into their businesses expand to who want example. an as market, international STRATEGIC DISCUSSIONS FOR nebraska 24 Financial Benefits Improved ScienceTakes Time, ButReaps Grains Breeder Feeding MillionsofPeopleMotivatesUNL crop that was produced inNebraska in2008had adollar percent since 1966,he said. The 73.5-million-bushelwheat wheat have improved bushels acre per by more than 20 said, but it pays off. improvementsGenetic in Nebraska okay,” said. Baenziger your investment, most people would say that’s probably we’ve done. So, ifyou Ithink can get a15to 1return on getting a$30million return at farm the gate from what $1.5 to $2 million dollars on wheat the project, but they’re “You want to make aquality loaf of bread.” can not sell, just whatever sell you produce,” said. Baenziger and herbicides, and quality. “You want to produce what you plant pathology, entomology, pesticides irrigation, dryland, wheatThe team at UNLincludes in breeding,specialists and that includes growing the market for organic products. one-tenthfeed of America,” said. Baenziger lot of satisfaction you’re when working on acrop that could 30 million people from Nebraska the wheat crop. So, that’s a billion pounds of wheat, means we could roughly feed 29to a year, that so 73.5million-bushel crop, is which roughly 4.5 average person eats somewhere around 150pounds of wheat million-bushel crop,” heyou said. figure “Then, that the produced state. inthe “In 2008,we produced about a73.5 and country the wheat ranks as fourth-largest the crop teaching. two things he loves: breeding crops to world, the feed and he said. He accepted jobat the Nebraska it because involved wonderful environments, wonderful people to work with,” great place to breed, it’s agreat tradition, great germplasm, breeders of previous the generation were at Nebraska. “It’s a country,”in the he said, noting that historically, greatest the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. breeder for state the of Nebraska; that person is hired by the breeds and triticale barley. There is one grainpublic small develops and varieties new cultivars of wheat, but also Professor of Grains Small Breeding and mainly Genetics, Nebraska-Lincoln. day of last the him every 24years at University the of what got himinto agriculture and that’s what has motivated might year that not fed.people be otherwise That’s every By Garbacz Mary It 12years takes to develop wheat anew variety, Baenziger “My guess is that State the of Nebraska probably spends It isn’t about all quantity, though; it’s about also quality, Nebraska is top inthe 10of wheat-producing states in “Nebraska, to me, is greatest the wheat-breeding position Baenziger, is Eugene who the W. Price Distinguished The work of P. StephenBaenzigerthree million feeds Triticale, Barleyand…Rice? board,” he said. interests represented, to need be demographically, on the U.S.the has made acommitment to foreign aid and their of Trustees and only the also American. “That’sbecause said, adding that he is only the breeder on IRRIBoard the wheat are similar to techniques the inrice,” use very they he am awheat breeder and breeding the techniques in Iuse Institute is (IRRI),which located Philippines. inthe “I we other dothe two crops,” he said. tenured professor at auniversity, you can dothat. That’swhy weso doit growers the we because think choices. need As a Oklahoma. “We’re last the barleybreeder Great inthe Plains, is grownso slightly inthe climates milder inKansas and for forage. It doesn’t have winter the hardiness of triticale, material as renewable sources. fuel cropgood for biomass, organic uses which plant and animal areas where it’s cold too to grow corn. Triticale a is also wheat, said, Baenziger and is anatural for animal in feed including barleyand triticale, rice. to prevent was used method no-till the erosion. soil or whether was soil the tilled conservation –whether tillage were controlled. Environment includes also such things as was sprayed for and weeds and insects diseases whether weather, crop the whether crop the whether was fertilized, is where plant the is grown and includes such things as and its own environment, said. Baenziger Environment region, our impact is much larger,” he added. Wyoming, of parts Kansas and of part Colorado, inthe so Nebraska. Alot of our are varieties grown inSouth Dakota, lowmillion ayear estimate, is avery and that’s just in well accepted and our yields have gone up. $30 the So percent instead of 20percent. “Our are varieties new very have value increased the of wheat the crop by about 23 said. Statistics prove that since 2008,genetic improvements bread or other products that contain wheat. chain, such as processors the produce who flour,thethen produce crop. the The percent 50 other benefits value the ofhalf that $60million directly benefitsthe farmers who million isof because wheat breeders like Baenziger. About percent of its worth is due to genetics. That meansthat $60 value of nearly $300million, he said, means which that 20 Baenziger is a trustee for isBaenziger atrustee International the Research Rice But rice? Barley, he said, mainly is used for animal feed, but also Triticale grown can be inmuch tougher conditions than works also Baenziger to improve other grains, small Whenever you produce aplant, it has its own genetics is news we’re good “The getting alittlebetter,” Baenziger Opportunities for Nebraska 25 Photo by Aaron Franco. Photo by Aaron You want to produce want to produce You what you can sell, not just sell whatever you want to You produce. of make a quality loaf bread. - Dr. P. Stephen Baenziger Stephen P. - Dr. Distinguished Price W. Eugene Genetics and Breeding Grains Small of Professor Photo of P. Stephen Baenziger in a Nebraska wheat field. wheat a Nebraska in Baenziger Stephen P. of Photo Baenziger grew up in the 1960s and was influenced by influenced was in the 1960s and Baenziger grew up in work to because I wanted agriculture into got “I for research that doesn’t directly impact them short-term; them short-term; impact directly doesn’t that research for Additional a good their money.” use of think that’s don’t we corporations. from and associations other from come funds part America is corporate think we that inclusive; are “We said. he too,” people’ ‘our of United in the hunger to eradicate efforts the government’s but nutritionist, be to a human college to went “I States. in work to going if I were that me to became obvious it without problem be a defining I would nutrition, human said. he it,” solve to the mechanisms providing 80 million learned that is I’ve what and people, feeding said. he bed to go hungry people every a billion to night,” the the world provide to continue to goal is my so, “And whenever feed ourselves to global be to wherewithal able be to long that I will I hope live choose feed ourselves. to we day.” see to that able For more information visit www.unl.edu/sdn/opportunities visit information more For Breeding new be varieties can costly;Breeding by paid salaries are Cereal crops are the majority crop for feeding the feeding for crop the majority are Cereal crops the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Additional funding funding Additional Nebraska-Lincoln. of the University which has Board, Wheat the Nebraska from comes checkoff the wheat 1986 through since funding provided alsoused Wheat checkoff Board Nebraska The program. thank never can “We laboratory. a quality for pay to funds have “The said. he growers Board enough,” the Wheat Baenziger said However, mainstay.” been a huge always for funding provide in federal grants dollars of millions pay to the growers want never because “we basic research, world, Baenziger said, and each crop is represented by by represented is each crop and Baenziger said, world, IRRI in to addition In organization. international an and Maize for Center the International the Philippines, sorghum, and in Mexico located is Improvement Wheat in also important and global crop major thewhich other is organization international an by represented is Nebraska, based in . Funding Sources STRATEGIC DISCUSSIONS FOR nebraska 26 of restaurants, these conversation often stopsbecause he is communities,to rural Wishart said. When he enters one that communication new is bringing technology world the Nebraska has insular still characteristics, despite fact the has visitedrestaurants several Nebraska. inrural Rural expensive.” and hanging on saying, sidewas the asign “We only look mostthe ramshackle looking places Wishart had everseen, in Yates Center, Kansas. The pub,Earl’s Tavern, was one of example of aself-deprecating he when visited boast abar geographytheir of with asense humor. Wishart found an Wishart said Great Plains people reactto America’s of view proud of traits others would not find attractive. of showing pride concept inthe of unpopular, being of being interesting reaction “self-deprecating —the boast” —away that washarsh too for others, and out of pride this comes an majortheir characteristics. They are proud to livethisland in createsalso of asense pride inNebraskans, is which one of Francisco and bigger the metropolitan [areas].” of stream the of life that’s going on inNew York and San perhaps inferiority, of asense feeling and maybeout rural of flat those statessomewhere the middle in of America. Great Plains agriculture, many Nebraska people view as one region world inthe over last the 100years.” region Wishart as “the described most agricultural successful 1980s. They stayed andcultivate helped the Great Plains, a Depression, and Dust the Bowl farming the crisisof the impermanence.” Wishart centuryNebraska 19th called aplace of “chronic lonely andcultivate. difficult to So many them left of that of Great the Plains. Lincoln geography professor and editor of Encyclopedia the people,” said David Wishart, aUniversity of Nebraska- what is perceived as alack of inlandscape detail by many people might not attached be to of because its horizons, wide worse”? be and long, hot summers, often someonehearing say, “It could Whatcountry”? makes stay them through long, cold winters generation after generation,what in some call “flyover “The self-deprecatingboast” Conquering geography Pride, GeographyandSelf-Deprecation Understanding Nebraska: By Becky Gailey By Becky Wishart, wasand who born innortheast raised England, Instead to of “fit struggling in”withthe rest of America, Wishart however, believes, that feeling this of inferiority Wishart said that Great inthe Plains “there of is asense Despite of dependence the and America other countries on But some people stayed. They stayedthrough the Great Many of Nebraska’s settlers found horizons wide the “A Nebraskan…is attached to aplace that many other What makes Nebraskans proud? What makes stay, them A senseofplace young people are of ambition full and enterprise. Ithink So notdoes want to leave. fewer options for life and partners an elderly population that but leave they same the behind have who two things: peers attachmenttheir to land, the exists. still roots to visit family for holidays, and of sense their place, from communities. rural Nebraskans return still to rural their numerous residents are only one or two generations removed In Lincoln and Omaha,many unlike other American cities, Wishart retain still attachment their said they to land. the explained by immigration to urban areas. population rural so loss can period, time perhapsthis be county (including growth experienced during Lincoln) all SarpyDouglas, Omaha metropolitan (the area) and Lancaster populationexperienced 2000and loss between 2007. Rural Initiative reported that 73of Nebraska’s 93counties professor Randy Cantrell for University the of Nebraska is leaving land the behind. A2009study by UNLsociology land,”the Wishart said. of time, takes place,Sense generations Ithink, perhaps, on same,the lawns the same the look and it’s modern. so all family businesses thrive. still and gas stations have not over taken Main Street, where a strong of area sense place inarural where chain restaurants According to Wishart, it is much for easier people to develop “rural” due is partly to strong their attachment to land. the place.” it assee agenerous stop and fix so I it… people wouldthose road,the any one of down down amile in my car and break there, ifIwere to get conversation going difficult tobe geta “Whereas it might shy,” Wishart said. people are almost not unfriendly; someone different. Loss oftheReproductive Population “The social amenitiessocial townsof small “The are notgreat, but Nebraska’s youth rural leave home for avariety of reasons, More young people may leaving Nebraska, be rural but But studies show that newest the generation of Nebraskans “It’s difficult to have sense a ofwhereplace look all houses Nebraskans’ humorous response to thought being of as “People are Dr. David Wishart Opportunities for Nebraska 11 27 McCook, Nebraska McCook, Although people left Nebraska in the past, the population of in the the past, population Nebraska left people Although in the standard-statistical lives the population of “Two-thirds but their agricultural roots, be leaving may people Young Nebraskans’ deep attachment to rural areas seems rural even to areas deep attachment Nebraskans’ formed that the divide of still remnants are there Today various the among identify differences to easiest always is It of least not state, the around of similarities a lot are “There In the United States, there are two areas with concentrated concentrated with areas two are there States, the United In For more information visit www.unl.edu/sdn/opportunities visit information more For The Future The Past the state is now growing, and Wishart predicted that Nebraska’s Nebraska’s that predicted Wishart and growing, now is the state in the future. urban will increasingly become population a “At said. Wishart Lincoln,” and Omaha of areas metropolitan farmers have to do have You bottom. rock hit you certain point young are What option… see any I can’t still, but the land on do?” to going people in the flourish cannot rural some mean centers this does not citizens enterprising locations, attractive with Towns future. newattract to able be will advertising always effective and in the social increased job opportunities and Despite residents. parents traits: attractive many has rural Nebraska areas, urban friendly commuting; of school instead to walk their children has when mom outside playing children over watch neighbors beauty the vast and the grocery to the street runto down store; lies nearby. always Plains the Great of deeper when considering the number of people who have left left who have people of the number deeper when considering the along towns established immigrants European the land. western discouraged Hills the Sand but railroads, newly-built the technology to have did not farmers Early expansion. semi-arid land miles of 19,000 square than survive in the more many and border, Dakota the South from down stretches that the East when their fertile of land the more to them returned of failed. crops those and Nebraska in western between who settlers stayed as cultures different helped separate who left. Geography they based how on the settle state parts to chose of people western as divide This evolved they use the could land. thought lifestyles. different developed businessmen urban and ranchers that said Wishart but Nebraska, of regions geographical For differences. than similarities more share Nebraskans the food, watch the same eat part, allthe most Nebraskans as define themselves importantly, most TV and, same shows, Nebraskans. identification is regionalism, the preeminent which, probably Wishart the football like things team,” iconic and the state with said. that young population’s going to continue to leave, which leave, to continue to going population’s young that and capable thepopulation population, the reproductive means get a population you Therefore, gone. is children, have to likely said. Wishart heavy,” top which is structure older: 75 and because Florida, who are people of populations because people Plains, the Great and there, move people a is the land to this attachment While there. stay to want economic have can it person, a Plains of characteristic core reproductive a leaving with when combined consequences struggle to must force work because a dwindling population population. aging an support STRATEGIC DISCUSSIONS FOR nebraska Geography, IrrigationandTechnology 28 irrigation, it would tough in farming, be to especially survive much of Nebraska and supplies water for irrigation. Without to farm, massive the Aquiferdry Ogallala liesunderneath technology.” cheaper and it’s probably anicerplace to but be, you need place. But ifyou’re going to farm inNebraska, land’s the Nebraska,” said. “I Illinois Dewey think would abetter be farm without irrigation. “So for farmers, Idon’t recommend 20 inches. West of there, it’s to less than 20inches…too dry of meridian,East annual 100th the precipitation is at or above farmed without irrigation from land that requires irrigation. but last inthe century, known has as been land that can be meridian separates100th United the States into east and west, 100 degrees of longitude west of Greenwich, England. The me here are people.” the mepulled to Nebraska was weather, the and what has kept I can’t imagine anywhere being else,” said. “What Dewey settlersthe battled 1800s. inthe approaching weather systems and study weather the extremes where horizons wide the allowed tornadoes, watch himto see at University the of Nebraska-Lincoln, moving to astate studies. He accepted an offer to teach and conduct research advancedearn degrees inclimatology and environmental become his career, and that’s he when returned to schoolto 42nd floor office. Oneco-workersuggested his hobbymight after work to watch sunsets andlake-effect weather from his Planning Commission co-workers noticed he often stayed promoted to designing guardrails and medians. But Illinois world!” hethat when learned he said, he especially might be and-off ramps. thought“I the Iwas happiestpersonthe in there as acity planner of design inthe on- –specializing didn’t understand,” he said. creativevery and innovative, and it’s of part aculture that I that’s made Nebraska the population extremely resilient and hunker down and say ‘we can doit,’” said. “So Dewey Ithink DNAin the of people live who inNebraska that just they stubbornness to today’s Nebraskans? “I there’s think resilience 1930s.What inthe Dust Bowl was it like for people?” those through 22-year the drought we when cycle turned into the today’s of technology hybrid and irrigation…going seeds Natural Resources. “I can’t imagine afarmer being without climatology University inthe of Nebraska-Lincoln of School crops. state’sthe growto tried they when firstsettlers, especially There’s NoPlaceLikeNebraska–forWeather By Garbacz Mary Even though western the of part state the is supposedly too NebraskaCozad, marks meridian, representing 100th the “Nebraska beganto grow on me inaway Inever expected. grewup Chicago inthe Dewey area and beganacareer earlyDid those settlers pass down hardiness, their their “It must have awful!” said been Ken Dewey, professor of Nebraska’s extreme weather must have to asurprise been he said. “There’s no naturalthing canwe do to stop climate patient –and there are some things that don’t right,” seem informationthe that’s coming at them,” he said. they’re busy too jumping back and forth and reacting to all near 90degrees…people don’t climate see change because Platte month inthe of October...and one week after it was Nebraska climate that can have 30inches of snow inNorth climateto see change here, said. “When Dewey we have a Nebraska, he said. changing direction, inthis it is having aprofound in effect permanent, couldwhich be or variation, means which it’s just history,” you whether he said. it’s So believe , is that climate is changing faster than we’ve inclimate seen like aging. But like aging, climate changes slowly. worry Our hour, day to day…climate is aslow, change gradual –kindof Weather is huge differencesfrom minute to minute, hour to variation that’s profound, and we can relate it to Nebraska. careful how we define it,”said; Dewey “there is climate said. storm tocan arrivehave they so afirsthand he experience, winds strongest –and wait they ininexpensive motels for the storms, determining and where deepest snow the be will not only chase tornadoes,snow they storms and ice open sky allow to them study storms and weather. Students here,to be where there are few and plains wide the and areas or areas with mountains buildings orwant –they tall climate. said his students Dewey don’t want inforested to be place to farm, but it’s for perfect study the of weather the and January, plunge then to 20below zero within hours, he said. Thisthe is onlythat place can have 70-degree weather in mountainsthe off the to westcan messwith our weather.” Gulf, and that all heat and humidity can come up here. And cold air can come down,” he explained. “We’re open to the ofmiddle aflat continent entirelyopen the the to …so to share whatever somebody’s going to us…we’re send inthe Florida, we’re not Hawaii, we’re not climate. acoastal We have we’re not sunbelt, the we’re not atropical climate, we’re not exciting to live here, said. “We’re Dewey not snowbelt, the Not freezes? Early fall much. so plagued early farmers controlled, can be as can weeds. Hail? developed ifreplantingseed issuccessful. to Pests be that said. LateDewey spring require freezes short-season hybrid andtechnology water resources possible, has made survival west of that meridian. Acombination 100th of creativity, Climate Change: Adapting totheFuture Does Nebraska “Think aboutthe climate“Think patient. as a It’s aging –like a The variability in Nebraska weather makes it more difficult “When you ask there ‘is climate change?’ we have to be Nebraska may not predictable be and it may not an be easy Nebraska doesn’t “own” aclimate, and that’s one reason it’s Have Have a Climate? Opportunities for Nebraska 29 “That made me come back to Nebraska and say ‘what can can ‘what and say Nebraska to back me come “Thatmade have there that acknowledge farmers Nebraska Longtime be stopped, can’t changes Climate this the future. is “So, Left: Dr. Ken Dewey (Photo by University of Nebraska-Lincoln) of University by Ken Dewey (Photo Left: Dr. Plains Great the through moves front A storm Above: Dewey) Ken Dr. by (Photo For more information visit www.unl.edu/sdn/opportunities visit information more For climate change in the Arctic,” he said. Some Some had said. he in the Arctic,” change climate had miles nine in 20 years; than more retreated wildlife collapse; to buildings and roads causing out, melted longer no can cultures so indigenous areas of out moved had their food. for hunt said. he so obvious,” I see it’s here?’And wintering are Pests said. he the years, over been changes damp because it’s wheat the winter on is over; there snow Generally, in the spring. earlier in the fall and longer period time in a shorter of for the ground covers now are habitats some evaporation; more is There the winter. – the south of out up moving are weeds Toxic changing. are deal to that in the had past with haven’t we that weeds he changing, is because the climate Nebraska into coming said. to opportunity an as use that and adapt can you but challenges, technology and additional into forward jump in Nebraska.” especially here - Dr. Ken Dewey Ken - Dr. Resources Natural of School Nebraska-Lincoln of University the in Climatology of Professor So, this is the future. Climate changes can’t be can’t changes Climate is the future. So, this an that as and use can adapt but you stopped, additional technology to jump forward into opportunity in Nebraska. especially here and challenges, The key is for people to adapt to changing conditions. “If “If conditions. changing to to adapt people for keyis The all as well 50 as countries, other to Dewey traveled has warming. There’s no natural thing you can do to stop aging, stop to do can you thing natural no There’s warming. said. he a good lifestyle,” living by down it slow can you but to continue to going is if the climate know don’t Scientists we’re what change slowly do is can we so “all warmer, get are Dewey countries some said example, an As doing.” rooftop have experimentally that vehicles operating already energy needs. the car than collect more that panels solar other energy to excess can be downloadedfor the grid That as such in use, already uses. are Other new technologies be the clean may what forming vehicles, for power transportation. of future energy get cheaper to a way found you’ve and colder gets it of types different investigated you’ve in Nebraska…and time found the same at and conditions warmer seeds for home… your insulated you’ve colder…and seedssome for called adapting.” It’s that. as simple as “It’s said. he win,” you In 2009, change. climate of the effects studying states, U.S. mile a 10,000 journey on the Yukon and Alaska to drove he found and scientists other with change climate study to finding trouble have didn’t “I change. documented and real STRATEGIC DISCUSSIONS FOR nebraska 30 Dvorak said centersDvorak the were established ineachU.S. state established by mandate federal more than 45years ago. related to water. The WaterCenter is one of 54 centers of water, as well as management the and laws and policies and science the engineering of quantity the and quality said.Dvorak various and uses help improve quantity both and quality,” reasons water research is important to help support those and other wildlife, he said. power. Additionally, water instreams is necessary for fish, cooling source; and water to generate is used hydroelectric and for urban horticulture; relies industry on water as a Nebraska relies on irrigation to produce crops agricultural important for economy the here inNebraska,” said. Dvorak country. We water, to need drink all but it’s very also research and extension efforts related issues. those to interest water indrinking and sustainability issues and inthe inirrigationis used and by industry. byis used public water supplies and domestic wells; rest the said.Dvorak In Nebraska, only about three percent of water ofpeople eastern inthe part state the water take for granted,” state mainly consider water at used home. “I alot think of water issues, many while residents of of eastern the part the western of part state the often look of wholethe at spectrum Nebraskans about talk water, residents of central the and Universitythe of Nebraska-Lincoln Water Center. Yet, when sources,” interim said Dvorak, Bruce director of nationthe amount inthe of irrigation that comes from Sustainability Issues UNL Water Center Addresses Quality, Quantity, By Garbacz Mary The Water a Centerbroad missionserves and addresses “There are alot of reasons water is important and alot of “Obviously, water important is very throughout the A UNLprofessor of has engineering, civil Dvorak aspecial “Nebraska is unusual we’re because number one in variability,” he knowledge added. Better of has science about science, the and we’re some experiencing climate today,” he said. “Now, we understand an awful lot more hydrologythe and water the way the cycle we understand developed 60to 90years ago we when didnot understand our laws are on outdated based science. Many laws were balancing water agricultural with other use “Many uses. of are developed being to address competing interests, he said, competition and concern. From alaw standpoint, regulations and wells going dry, that so vision of future the has to led we’re not careful, said, Dvorak we’ll more seeing start rivers supplies. of aproblem inNebraska’s public water and domestic water national concern –such as various contaminants –are less some treatment extra and means many of issues the of said aquifer Dvorak qualitythe the high. is so provides groundwater supplies that have little or no treatment because he said, is that almost of half Nebraskans are drinking their from groundwater.” unusual, Also sources; inNebraska, over 80percent of gets our citizenry largeA very amount of our water is from groundwater that groundwater is of quality, really high we’re so fortunate. supply provided Aquifer, by Ogallala the said. Dvorak “And water managers and to public. the water and study; to communicate results of research the to water scientists, engineers and managers into field the of and to address water problems; of 2)to aid new entry the for competent research to expand understanding the of water and for territory 1)to three main provide purposes: aplace Limited Water, NewLaws Nebraska’s Water Situation However, amount the of available water is limited. If Nebraska is unique of because large the groundwater Photo by University of Nebraska-Lincoln Interim Director of the UNL Water Center - Dr. Bruce Dvorak (left) quality issohigh. no treatmentbecause the supplies thathave littleor are drinkinggroundwater Almost halfofNebraskans Opportunities for Nebraska 31 Estimated Water Use in Estimated Water in 2005 Nebraska Survey Geological Source: U.S. (www.usgs.gov) the by provided Image UNL School Resources of Natural Surface Irrigation Water Irrigation Ground Water Self Supplied Industrial Self Supplied Domestic Livestock Public Supply 330,170,000 Gpd 1,152,400,000 Gpd 7,308,030,000 Gpd 11,300,000 Gpd (99% private wells) private 11,300,000 Gpd (99% 52,070,000 Gpd 108,310,000 Gpd Gpd = Gallons per day Gpd = Gallons per Above all, Dvorak believes a definition for “sustainable” “sustainable” for all, Dvorak believes a definition Above state’s with the working will emphasize The future in the challenges the biggest of Dvorak believes one But that understood well is it internationally “Nationally, For more information visit www.unl.edu/sdn/opportunities visit information more For Sustainability, Pollution, Climate Pollution, Sustainability, Us Variability…and will help to determine the future of water policy and law as as policy law and water of the future determine to will help science related of understanding a better obtain scientists climate potentially, and drought variability, climate to about expects discussion will there be He more change. pollution nutrient source both nonpoint rural urban and will be that particularly of focused third the eastern on to related also discussion expects He more Nebraska. information scientific more including micro-contaminants, are we a society, as that adding risks, potential on smaller smaller risks. and about concerned more becoming that, to be related discussion probably there’ll anticipate “I what about discussion policy public and and both research said. he accept,” willing to we’re risk of level use without try to water systems reduce to economic research UNL recent a citing he said, production, affecting in water of inches two save to been has shown that project per acre. bushels of number the same produce to each field the science put to people decadenext will be convincing great all this good have we science, have “We use. into I call the what is challenge the next but technologies, policy public having including said, he dimension,” human understanding as well as in place incentives economic and the sociology use people water. the way of technology science and more a need for there’s although the human also need understand a real to there’s research, technology so can science and we that with interactions said. he applied,” it actually have changed the way land is used and that has changed water water changed has that used is and land the way changed no-till as agriculture such Conservation techniques usage. source nonpoint reducing by the soil protect to efforts and areas in some flow river in reduced resulted have pollution provide to obligations contractual affecting the state, of states. other to water - Dr. Bruce Dvorak (left) Dvorak Bruce - Dr. Center UNL Water the of Director Interim Nebraska-Lincoln of University by Photo STRATEGIC DISCUSSIONS FOR nebraska President of the University of Nebraska - James B. Milliken for Nebraska. there willbebenefits water foragriculture, use ofwaterforfood, the discussionon the worldthatisleading By beingtheplacein Opportunities for Nebraska 33 “We have, we think, a great deal to offer the world. We world. the deal offer think, to we a great have, “We in water for practical solutions for a place become “We’ll water we use way the about efficient need be to more “We For more information visit www.unl.edu/sdn/opportunities visit information more For Benefits for Nebraska and the World the Benefits for Nebraska and Facing the Challenge also think by being the place in the world that is leading the leading is that also in the being the world place think by agriculture, for food, water for water the use of on discussion Milliken Degree said. Nebraska,” willfor there be benefits graduate and undergraduate for will be created programs in the place important the most will create that students of in the area work and study to who want people for world will food. “We of production for resources use of sustainable the best research for activity scholarly for a center become Besides added. he generating disciplines,” of in a range will the state the Lincoln-based institute, from solutions to who come the world the expertslearn from around said. he global to solutions, contribute and Nebraska will be the because Nebraska but elsewhere, and Nebraska will enormous it pay this in the activity world, for center will for be magnet a talent “We said. Milliken dividends,” a in making interested who are students for faculty and agriculture.” for resources of water use in the difference Water Center, which has been in existence for nearly 60 nearly for been which has in existence Center, Water many from 100 faculty members nearly its draws and years includes of disciplines range The the university. parts of mitigation, drought science, plant engineering, hydrology, all aspects the water of – addressing law political science and will FoodInstitute for Water The in the state. challenges campus, Nebraska-Lincoln of the University be on located expertise all also on four faculty will from from but draw on be located will eventually institute The NU campuses. Campus. Innovation Nebraska will thrive survive that and crops today; need produce to we said. Milliken yields,” need increase to we water; less with will it thoseReaching will goals Nebraska; in be a challenge Good be policies the must world. also around be a challenge about made decisions good governmental and in place put Regardless used, said. is he resource this veryhow important in acute even more “it’s in Nebraska, challenges the water of so need the we best science to the world, around places other something think we that’s and decision-making our inform said. Milliken to,” contribute can we

Nebraska’s economy is largely dependent on agriculture agriculture on dependent largely is economy Nebraska’s Nebraska’s strengths in agriculture, water and training training and water in agriculture, strengths Nebraska’s 80 75 to about is agriculture for water now, “Right provided was institute the found to giftA $50 million gift through founding on the buildwill university The By Mary Garbacz By

Sustainable Solutions Solutions Sustainable Global Water for Food Institute Races to Find Find to Races Institute Food for Water Global Founding gift focuses on water, agriculture and doubling world food world food and doubling agriculture on water, gift focuses Founding water and land the same amount of production with and the state already has a significant role in feeding in role a significant has already the state and Food for the so Water locating said, Milliken the world, heavily- most The choice. a natural was in Nebraska Institute the above sits Nebraska in the country, state irrigated America – the in North resource natural freshwater largest regulation, quantity, quality, – so water Ogallala Aquifer focus in been a research long has sustainability use and will Institute Food for the Water said Milliken the state. Nebraska-Lincoln of the University of the success on build scientists in all things that grow have come together to to together come have grow in all that things scientists the University at Institute Food for the global Water establish will the world around Experts NU and from Nebraska. of challenge the world’s address to the clock racing collaborate, the same using 2050 food by twicemuch as growing of water. and land of amount worldwide. water fresh use of the consumptive of percent food a with more much need produce to do we only Not said purposes,” other for needwe water resource, finite Nebraska. of the University of President Milliken, B. James and availability also need improved countries Developing added. he sanitation, for drinking and for water of quality the Robert Daugherty Charitable 2010 by B. in early Omaha-based Valmont Daugherty founded Foundation. of manufacturers leading the world’s of one Industries, Daugherty said is Milliken systems. irrigation pivot center and agriculture for water use of the sustainable to committed will know the world soon,also around people believes that water to related challenges to solutions has this institute that agriculture. for and university government, with partnerships funding keyelements The said. Milliken sources, private additional including quickly, will rather be established the institute of and research for directors and director institute an hiring to students graduate talented policy then recruiting analysis, of institute the The basics research. conduct and take classes the Daugherty Foundation years; two been for in place have Nebraska of University annual the first sponsored 2009, of in May Conference Food for Water International sponsored Foundation, Gates Melinda the Bill with and and 2010. in May, conference the second Nebraska’s Strengths in Water Research Nebraska’s Strengths in Water The Dismal River

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