Through the five-year agreement, the USDA's Agricultural Research Service will share its technologies and research abilities with the KBA. That will include efforts in human and animal health, along with various biological investigative initiatives.
"Partnerships with economic development organizations like KBA are critical to extending both the reach and impact of ARS technology transfer programs, including benefits ultimately enjoyed by consumers," said Edward Knipling, ARS administrator.
The agreement between the ARS and the KBA is one of 10 that have been established as part of the former's Agricultural Technology Innovation Partnership program. The result of these initiatives could end up translating into advantages for those who use farm equipment across the country.
One of the projects that the ARS has busied itself with for some time is research into the causes of Colony Collapse Disorder, which was first spotted during the fall of 2006. The phenomenon has seen beekeepers lose between 30 to 90 percent of their hive populations.
