I work with these companies and farmers to understand what these corporate promises mean on the ground for forest conservation. I also develop solutions to address problems we uncover.

Closer to home, I work to understand how we can grow more nourishing food that is directly consumed by people – both locally, by investigating the potential of community and front-yard gardens and nationally, by studying our country’s agricultural policies.

I work to understand how U.S. energy policies have tipped more farmers to plant more corn to help fuel our cars. Forty percent of U.S. corn is used for ethanol production. I work to understand what this means for America’s land and water resources.

In the course of my work, I spend a lot of time listening to policymakers, farmers, environmental organizations and companies.

Listening helps me understand what questions to ask and to understand how I can leverage my research to support their decision-making and actions. Then, I follow up with results to ensure my work is timely and relevant to them.

I want my research to matter to our community and to our world. I embolden my undergraduate and graduate students to do the same.