This project seeks to promote educational opportunities for students interested in sustainable agriculture and environmental quality. In a two-year period, we envision to host four student interns that will be involved in the research projects the PI's lead, and will conduct an independent project. Through this experience, the internship will provide close opportunities to learn the about research in modern organic food production, soil health, and corn breeding techniques for organic systems. With the help of one of the three PI's, who will take the role of mentors, selected students will design a project within the umbrella of ongoing projects conducted at an organic farming study established at the University South Farms. Specifically, students will:

• learn about diversified food production systems and their implications for sustainable soil management.
• examine the influence of organic management practices on soil organic matter, which is fundamental to promote soil health, C sequestration, and soil resilience.
• be exposed to an organic corn breeding program that is testing the agronomic characteristics of various lines of food-grade corn produced under low-input systems, which tend to reduce the use of synthetic chemicals and pesticides and rely on fertility provided by the use of cover crops.
• gain experience conducting research in crop production and environmental science
• improve science communication skills through content development for social media outlets and presentations at University sponsored events, and scientific meetings.