Untangling the Economic and Social Impediments to Producer Adoption of Organic Wheat

Consumer demand for organic products has shown double-digit growth in recent years encouraging the development of a wider range of goods (Greene, 2017). Americans with an annual household income under $30,000 actively purchase organic foods at nearly the same rate as households with over$75,000 in annual incomes, 42% versus 49% (Greene et al., 2017). Previous research observed the adoption of organic farming practices on a combination of different grains, fruits and vegetables, meat, and dairy products from across the globe. However, this is the first study to examine the adoption of organic wheat in the Western U.S. By addressing the recent challenges and by discussing the current demands of the U.S. consumers, future research and decision making (including policy updates and grant opportunities) may become more impactful. Through an online survey of western wheat growers, we look at potential patterns in farm characteristics, grower characteristics, concerns about growing organic products, factors discouraging adoption production technology, and the use of resources on the likelihood of becoming an organic grower. A total of 82 valid surveys were collected. Findings suggest operators of smaller farms are more likely to be organic growers. Wheat growers willing to take risks to increase profits and those who considered financing availability a hurdle to adoption were also more likely to use organic methods. Interestingly, operator gender and years of experience had no impact on adoption. Using resources such as university research, consultants, etc. decrease the likelihood of becoming an organic producer

Novel flexible mechanical actuator serving as an artificial muscle

Most linear actuators (screw, pneumatic, hydraulic, etc.) consist of a stationary housing and a moveable (piston) extension component. In order to keep the piston constrained laterally, and due to other mechanical limitations, the pistons for these systems are incapable of translating more than the distance of the stationary housing. The relative translation distance is limited for those traditional linear actuators. In this study, a novel cable-driven linear actuator is designed that can provide both axial tension and compression forces, and be capable of extending to a final length that is over twice its original length. It uses a set of wires arranged in a helix configuration that extends or contracts axially due to a torsional rotation. These wires are constrained from shifting laterally and from buckling when under compression. Prototypes are constructed using mostly 3D printed components, and the relationship between the input torque, output force, and output contraction distance are determined experimentally.Lew Wentz FoundationMechanical and Aerospace Engineerin

Characteristics of Organic Wheat Growers

This fact sheet provides an overview of the study results and compares and contrasts these results with the results of other studies. It also provides suggestions for outreach to current and potential organic wheat growers

Adopting Organic Wheat: Grower Motivations and Concerns

This fact sheet provides an overview of the study results by discussing grower motivations for adopting organic methods, as well as grower concerns regarding organic production

GED8100-01.Leadership Organization.Sp17.Quarnstrom,Tracy

Examine various dimensions of leadership and how it interacts with the organizational structures in varied, complex educational and business organizations. Consider qualities and skills required of leaders, the tasks of leadership, and the types and personalities of leaders. Explore opportunities for creating a future as a leader and the development of personal growth plans for leadership

GED8100-01.Leadership and Organization I.F13.Quarnstrom,Tracy

Examine various dimensions of leadership and how it interacts with the organizational structures in varied, complex educational and business organizations. Consider qualities and skills required of leaders, the tasks of leadership, and the types and personalities of leaders. Explore opportunities for creating a future as a leader and the development of personal growth plans for leadership

GED8100-01.Leadership and Organization I.F16.Quarnstrom,Tracy

Examine various dimensions of leadership and how it interacts with the organizational structures in varied, complex educational and business organizations. Consider qualities and skills required of leaders, the tasks of leadership, and the types and personalities of leaders. Explore opportunities for creating a future as a leader and the development of personal growth plans for leadership

GED8100-01.Leadership and Organization.F17.Quarnstrom,Tracy

Examine various dimensions of leadership and how it interacts with the organizational structures in varied, complex educational and business organizations. Consider qualities and skills required of leaders, the tasks of leadership, and the types and personalities of leaders. Explore opportunities for creating a future as a leader and the development of personal growth plans for leadership

GED8497-TQ.Independent Study*.Sp14.Quarnstrom,Tracy

An independent study course is an opportunity to do independent work under the direction of a faculty member. The student and the instructor will determine a course of study before the term begins and typically meet four to six times throughout the term to discuss readings and papers. Students may take one independent study during the course of their program. Please note: Special registration is required. Contact the Degree Programs office