The Leopold Center has begun the process that will lead
to grants for new research and education projects and
will shape the center’s work over the next two years.
In June, the Center issued a Request for Pre-Proposals
(RFP). Investigators representing any Iowa nonprofit
organization/agency and/or educational institution (such
as soil and water conservation districts, schools and
colleges, and regional development groups) were invited
to submit concept papers by August 14.
The pre-proposals will be reviewed by Center staff and
Advisory Board members to assess the technical merit and
relevance to the Center’s mission. Funding for most
projects will begin by early 2007.
Interim director Jerry DeWitt said the Leopold Center is
especially interested in projects that will enhance
Iowa’s water quality and protect the state’s water
resources. In the Ecology Initiative, special emphasis
will be given to projects that help integrate
grass-based and forage systems with the feedstock needs
of the rapidly growing biofuels industry. Marketing and
Food Systems Initiative leader Rich Pirog said he wants
to focus on projects that research and test new
marketing strategies and business structures that allow
Iowa’s farmers to retain more value.
Another part of the call targeted specific types of
dairy projects. The Center wants to address the
challenges and opportunities for those farmers beginning
or transitioning to dairy enterprises that embody
grass-based and/or organic production practices.