Strategic Discussions for Nebraska is an annual publication that highlights research and projects conducted at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR) and the impact the work has on the state of Nebraska and beyond. The Nebraska Legislature created IANR in 1973 through the enactment of LB149. The Institute focuses efforts in teaching, research and Extension around six communities:

1. Science Literacy
2. Stress Biology
3. Healthy Humans
4. Healthy Systems for Agricultural Production and Natural Resources
5. Computational Sciences
6. Drivers of Economic Vitality for Nebraska

Strategic Discussions for Nebraska helps share the IANR story. The annual Strategic Discussions for Nebraska publication translates research-based science to be understood by the general audience. A Strategic Discussions for Nebraska publication has been produced annually since 2008, each focusing on a different overall topic.

In recent years, the Strategic Discussions for Nebraska has rotated through the IANR six communities as a publication theme. This 2019 edition focuses on Nebraska’s Advantage — Healthy Systems for Agricultural Production and Natural Resources.

According to Michael J. Boehm, University of Nebraska Vice President for Agriculture and Natural Resources and Harlan Vice Chancellor of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln IANR, the ultimate role of SDN is to share the story of both Nebraska and the Institute through a vast array of scientific research. Stories communicate the current state of projects as well as outline the impact and potential future directions for the work. Every seven years, a new chapter will be added to the volume of each specific community.

“SDN is a critical part of telling the narrative of our progress at IANR, through our amazing students, faculty, staff and partners,” Boehm said.

Students in the Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Communication (AESC) program in the Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communication (ALEC) produce the stories for the Strategic Discussions for Nebraska publication as part of their Senior Capstone Seminar course each spring.

For the 2019 publication, University Communication provided photography and graphic design and IANR Media offered website expertise and design. IANR provided funding as well as business and liaison services for the production of this publication.

A sincere appreciation is expressed for the original vision and financial support of the Robert and Ardis James Family Foundation, which founded Strategic Discussions for Nebraska in 2007.