A Message From Harvey Perlman

From Lab to Living Room, UNL Research Makes a Difference

A message from University of Nebraska-Lincoln Chancellor Harvey Perlman

I am pleased to present the latest iteration of Strategic Discussions for Nebraska, a project of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Journalism and Mass Communications. This edition, Opportunities for Nebraska, Volume Two: Energy, Climate and Sustainability, explores important topics that engage the very best scientists and researchers at the University. This edition also represents two milestones. For the first time, the contents of this magazine were researched and written entirely by UNL students. And this is the first time that the University of Nebraska Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources has been a key partner and collaborator.

UNL's most important strategic priorities are undergraduate education and research and economic development. These are rooted in our primary missions of teaching, research and engagement and outreach. Strategic Discussions for Nebraska is a project that encompasses all these missions. Opportunities for Nebraska, Volume Two: Energy, Climate and Sustainability allowed students to dig deeply into diverse issues such water conservation, climate change, innovations in plant and animal science, drought policy, and biofuels. UNL scientists and researchers are among the leaders in these areas. This publication bridges the gap between the laboratory and living room- giving Nebraskans the facts and materials necessary to make critical decisions about issues that will affect the future. We hope these publications spark discussion, comment and further inquiry.

We are indebted to the Robert and Ardis James Family Foundation whose generous contributions launched Strategic Discussions for Nebraska. Congratulations to Project Director Mary Garbacz of the College of Journalism and Mass Communications and to the students who researched, wrote and created this publication. I thank the many faculty members across the University, particularly those in IANR, who served as sources for the project. Thanks also to the members of the Strategic Discussions for Nebraska Advisory Board, who come from the University and the wider Nebraska business and educational communities. This group's aid in identifying and targeting topics of interest has proven invaluable.

I know you will find this publication to be a useful tool in formulating opinions and policy that advance Nebraska's progress.