Photo of growing plants by Cat Wofford
Sponsor
United States Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Award Dates
2025-2029
Participants
Project Lead
Dubeux, Jose (University of Florida)
Project Participants and Partners
Albertin, Andrea (University of Florida)
Hundemer, Sadie (University of Florida)
Singh, Hardeep (University of Florida)
Weng, Weizhe (University of Florida)
Zhao, Chang (University of Florida)
Mackowiak, Cheryl (University of Florida)
Small, Ian (University of Florida)
Fraisse, Clyde (University of Florida)
Velez, Darlene (University of Florida)
Carton de Grammont, Paloma (University of Florida)
Partners: Clemson University, Florida A&M University, University of Georgia, Solutions for the Land, American Farm Trust, Tuskegee University, Auburn University, United States Department of Agriculture Agricultural Research Service
Goals and Objective
CHEERS aims to transform underused winter farmland in the Southeast U.S. into climate-smart systems that support both agriculture and the environment. By introducing value-added winter crops, the project seeks to boost income, protect soil and water, support pollinators, sequester carbon, and reduce nutrient runoff. It brings together farmers, Extension agents, industry, agencies, and researchers to co-create solutions and decision tools. The UF Water Institute supports team integration and collaboration through facilitated meetings. The project held its in-person kickoff meeting in June that included the project team, advisory board, and Farmer Team Leaders.