As part of the planning process associated with the move to Michigan State University, the NCRCRD conducted site visits to states in the region to identify major themes for its future work. Four major themes emerged from the conversations and other feedback:
- Technology assessment and adoption
- Sustainable communities
- Leadership development
- Entrepreneurial communities
Over the next two years the NCRCRD will work collaboratively with land grant universities and other partners to to develop teams to refine and implement these themes. The NCRCRD will provide seed funds and logistical support for research and outreach activities related to the themes. An expanded definition of each theme is available at left.