ifas

IFAS, short for the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, is a unit of the University of Florida dedicated to research, education, and extension in food, agriculture, natural resources, and related sciences. It operates as the university’s umbrella for agricultural and life sciences activities, coordinating work across campus laboratories, statewide research and education centers, and a network of county extension offices.

The institute conducts scientific research on crops, animals, soils, water, forestry, ecology, and related fields, and translates this knowledge through extension programs that provide farmers, educators, and the public with practical guidance on pest management, irrigation, nutrition, sustainable farming, and environmental stewardship. It also offers degree programs in agricultural and life sciences and collaborates with government agencies, industry partners, and other academic institutions.

In Florida, IFAS is known for its Extension service and 4-H youth development programs, which deliver educational outreach to diverse communities. The organization emphasizes translating research into real-world applications to support agricultural productivity, natural resource management, and rural and urban resilience.

IFAS operates multiple research and education centers and maintains partnerships with state and federal agencies to address regional and statewide priorities, including food systems, climate adaptation, water quality, and food safety. Its overarching mission is to generate and disseminate science-based knowledge that benefits Florida’s agriculture, environment, and communities.