The mission of the Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program is to enhance sustainable agriculture in the Northeast. It focuses on promoting practices that are profitable, enhance environmental stewardship, improve the quality of life for farmers and farm communities, and support diversified and healthful agricultural products. The program aims for agriculture that wisely manages resources, is satisfied with farming lifestyles, and exerts a positive influence on communities and the environment.
The grant program supports commercial producers interested in testing innovative ideas through field trials, on-farm demonstrations, marketing initiatives, or other techniques. It aims to generate new knowledge beneficial to other farmers, emphasizing projects that increase profits, improve stewardship of resources, and bolster rural communities. Involvement from a technical advisor with expertise is required. Funds can be utilized for research activities, including compensating farmers for their time, buying materials, covering costs like consulting fees or soil tests, and disseminating results to wider audiences.