The following five research areas (in bold) were selected as the highest priority areas for future research activities by the SAES/ARD Directors at their Workshop in New Orleans, September 26-28, 2000. The statement below each area (in italics) represents the primary outcome-oriented goal desired from research in that area. The bullet list¹ under each area indicates areas for more specific research activities of critical national need within each high priority area.

1. Environment, Natural Resources, and Landscape Stewardship

   Natural resources will be managed to improve the environment and the economy.

   • Water: ecosystems/watershed management, quality and quantity
   • Land: use, management, and preservation
   • Biodiversity
   • Risk assessment

2. Relationship of Food to Human Health

   Food will always contribute to human health.

   • Human health impacts of food, diet, and environment
   • Assuring safe food throughout the food value chain
   • Nutraceuticals and functional foods

3. Rural Community Vitality

   Agricultural science will help rural communities thrive.

   • Human capital development
   • Access to and application of new technologies
   • Risks facing rural people
   • Competitiveness of commodity-based and product-based enterprises

4. Biobased Products

   Biobased products will be central to sustaining the economy and the environment.

   • Biofuels and biobased materials
   • Genetic enhancement and preservation
   • Nutraceuticals and functional foods
   • Social, economic, and environmental dimensions of technological change

5. Functional Genomics and Bioinformatics

   Genomic science will help assure global health and well being.

   • Genetically enhanced plants, animals, and microorganisms
   • Improved techniques to advance genomic science
   • Safety, risk assessment, and consumer use

^{1 Bullet lists are not in priority order.}