Social Responsibility Initiative Projects
Several ongoing projects within the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences fall under the Social Responsibility Initiative's umbrella, including:
The Ohio Survey of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Issues
A biennial survey of rural and urban Ohioans, this study assesses perceptions of food, agriculture, and the environment, and tracks changes in those views over time. The survey has been conducted in 2002 and 2004, and is planned again in 2006.
The Acceptability of Large Dairy Farm Establishment in Two Rural Ohio Communities
This project began in 2004 to identify factors that influence the acceptability of large farms. The study examines economic, social, environmental, and production aspects of two large dairy farms as case studies.
The Rural Social Science Summit
Planned as a biennial event, the summit presents findings and background on issues such as animal welfare and changing farm structure to share with college, university, and statewide audiences. The summit, first held in 2002, generates discussion on emerging issues and provides an opportunity for stakeholders to share their insights.
The Sugar Creek Watershed Project
Part of Ohio State's Agroecosystems Management Program, the Sugar Creek project is a grassroots effort aimed at reducing the watershed's sedimentation and fecal-coliform levels. Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center scientists partner with the Wayne County Soil and Water Conservation District, the Wayne County Health Department, and the Wayne County office of Ohio State University Extension in this joint project.
The Exurban Change Project
This research analyzes economic, social, agricultural, and land-use changes of Ohio's regions and localities focusing on exurban areas. The overall goal is to perform applied research on these topics and extend information gained to local officials, professionals, and interested citizens to support planning and decision-making at the local level.
The Statewide Study of Collaborative Watershed Groups
This study examines the membership, goals, strategies, and accomplishments of watershed groups in bringing together stakeholders with an interest in addressing non-point sources of water pollution. Beginning in 1999, this research has included repeated statewide surveys of watershed group leaders and members, in-depth interviews with watershed group leaders, and analysis of watershed group documents including grant applications and progress reports.
Landowner Participation in Voluntary Conservation Programs
Starting in 2002, this study has investigated landowner perceptions of, and participation in, various voluntary land use conservation programs. Of particular interest are landowners' feelings about working with federal, state, and local government organizations, as well as non-governmental organizations. This project highlights the importance of trust in the interactions between landowners and program agents.
