In February, ag leaders from Alabama visited the Center for Environmental Farming Systems (CEFS) in Goldsboro, N.C., and Clemson University looking for new ideas to develop strategic plans for Alabama’s research and extension centers. The CEFS operates as a unique partnership that includes the NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, NC State University, NC Agricultural & Technical State University and other state and federal agencies, nongovernmental organizations, farmers and the citizens of North Carolina. Long-term interdisciplinary research has been initiated at the CEFS to develop profitable agricultural systems that protect the environment and enhance rural communities. At Clemson, participants were given an overview of the Sustainable Agriculture Program by Geoff Zehnder, formerly a CoAg faculty member.