Rodale Institute, Kutztown University sign research agreement for organic farming

The Rodale Institute announced Monday that it has signed a five-year academic research agreement with Kutztown University.

The institute, located less than six miles from the Kutztown campus, will provide students and faculty the opportunity to partner with its personnel and researchers around the world on field research in the areas of soil health and regenerative organic farming practices. Students can learn about pest management, composting, pollination and internship opportunities will be made available to students.

“I’m honored to sign this agreement today with one of the premier research organizations in the world,” said Dr. Kenneth S. Hawkinson, Kutztown University president. “This is a great opportunity to market Kutztown University’s new track in regenerative organic agriculture, among our many programmatic areas. One of the greatest benefits from this collaboration are the mutual networking opportunities we will have to educate our audiences about the mission of our organizations.”

Kutztown University offers classes in biology, chemistry, environmental science and a track in regenerative organic agriculture.

Through the agreement, students and faculty in those areas will have access to Rodale’s research facility, including field laboratories, in-house laboratories, crop, livestock areas and research facilities.

“Rodale Institute and Kutztown University are neighbors and logical partners in this endeavor to launch the first regenerative organic educational tract in the world,” said Jeff Tkach, chief impact officer for Rodale Institute. “We are backed by a state government and Department of Agriculture that is investing in the future of regenerative organic farming. Together, we will continue to position Pennsylvania as the leader in organic agriculture and a center of innovation and education for the next generation of farmers and food entrepreneurs.”