"The center's mission is heavily influenced by input we receive from our stakeholder groups. The University of Arizona will not drive the mission; rather, we will develop it from deep consultative input from our stakeholder groups."

Dr. Shane C. Burgess, University of Arizona

"What I like about this is it's a very quick, responsive approach to dealing with problems. When you have a problem, you can't wait for the results of a five-year research grant. You need answers now."

Vic Smith, JV Smith Companies

Working together is the key to successful ventures. The global desert agriculture industry benefits from University efforts that are focused on solving their pressing issues. The University benefits from new resources made available by private funding of their efforts. The environment and world populations benefit from more efficient, sustainable and productive agricultural production in the 40% of the world where food is produced in arid lands.