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MAXATAWNY TWP., Pa. – Two institutions that are virtually neighboring in northern Berks County are now working together to benefit the “next generation of farmers and food entrepreneurs.”
Kutztown University and Rodale Institute on Monday signed a five-year university cooperation agreement that establishes a research affiliation between KU and the neighboring research and educational institution.
Representatives said the deal gives Kutztown students and faculty the opportunity to partner with Rodale staff and researchers in studies of soil health, organic practices for agriculture and pest control, composting and pollinators.
“This is a great opportunity to commercialize Kutztown University’s new line of regenerative organic agriculture, one of our many program areas,” said Kenneth S. Hawkinson, president of the university. “One of the biggest benefits of this collaboration is the mutual networking opportunities we will have to educate our audiences on the mission of our organizations.
Rodale was founded in 1947 by organic farming pioneer JI Rodale to study the connection between healthy soil, healthy diets, and healthy people through regenerative organic farming. The association’s headquarters and research facilities are located on a 333-acre farm located within six miles of the KU campus.
“We are backed by a state government and a Department of Agriculture investing in the future of regenerative organic farming,” said Jeff Tkach, Rodale impact manager and Kutztown graduate. “Together, we will continue to position Pennsylvania as the leader in organic agriculture and a center of innovation and education for the next generation of farmers and food entrepreneurs.”
The partnership will give Kutztown students enrolled in the university’s biology, chemistry and environmental science programs access to Rodale’s research facilities, including field labs, in-house labs, areas of culture and breeding.
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