Message from Department Head, Kimberly Rollins, Ph.D.
Agricultural and Resource Economics (ARE) deals with issues related to the sustainable use of natural resources, including land, water, and energy. Analyses are used to improve the outcomes of decisions made by individuals, firms, organizations, and government agencies. As of March 2020, ARE department of UConn ranks in the top 25 Agricultural and Resource Economics Research Institutions world-wide, and is 17th among Agricultural and Resource Economics Departments at universities in the United States.
The mission of the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics at the University of Connecticut is to conduct and communicate the highest quality economic research and prepare future leaders to tackle the challenges faced by our world. We strive to improve the viability of the food and fiber sector and protect and enhance the environment in the state, the nation, and the world. We are proud to offer opportunities for students at the undergraduate and graduate level, with focuses on food marketing, environmental and resource economics, international agricultural development and trade, and more.
In line with the strategic vision areas identified by the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources, our work seeks to:
- Ensure a vibrant and sustainable agricultural industry and food supply
- Enhance health and well-being locally, nationally, and globally
- Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in our communities
- Advance adaptation and resilience in a changing climate
- Foster sustainable landscapes across urban-rural interfaces
We acknowledge that the land on which we work within Connecticut is the territory of the Mohegan, Mashantucket Pequot, Eastern Pequot, Schaghticoke, Golden Hill Paugussett, Nipmuc, and Lenape Peoples, who have stewarded this land throughout the generations. We thank them for their strength and resilience in protecting this land and aspire to uphold our responsibilities according to their example.