Farming for the Future: Water, Soil and Sustainability
Environmental Technology Center at Sonoma State University
Wed, Mar 18, 11:00 am
– 12:00 pm
Admission Fees: none
Register Here
Join SSU students in their Agroecology class as they explore the intersection of water, soil and remedial approaches to farming in our state with Sustainable Conservation. California is among the top 10 agricultural economies in the world and produces the majority of the nation's fresh fruit, vegetables, nuts and dairy. At the same time, we place a very high value on our natural environment, for its intrinsic value, importance to healthy communities, and recreation. What new steps can we take to better steward the resources we all (people, wildlife, and farms) depend upon for a more sustainable water future and climate-resilient California?
This talk explores the science, adoption, and drivers of farming practices in California that offer powerful, promising solutions for farm productivity, water quality and supply, air quality, and ecosystem services. Even as climate pressure and extreme weather events intensify, we have an increasing number of tools to rebalance agricultural productivity with environmental stewardship.
Presenter
Dr. Josette Lewis is the CEO of Sustainable Conservation, a consensus-building nonprofit dedicated to working in collaboration with diverse sectors to catalyze conservation success. She assumed that role in the beginning of 2026, coming to the organization from the Almond Board of California (ABC), where she served as Vice President and Chief Scientific Officer. At ABC, she oversaw its water stewardship programs and spearheaded the California Pollinator Coalition, a first-of-its-kind partnership among agriculture, conservation organizations, and government agencies to protect threatened pollinator species.
Logistics
We will meet at the Environmental Technology Center (ETC) on the SSU Campus. See map below for ETC location and nearby parking. General parking costs $6 for the day and reserved $9.
How to Sign Up
Register at the link above. Each participant should register separately.
This event is free of charge.
About the Center
Sonoma State University’s Center for Environmental Inquiry empowers university students to work with community members on the environmental challenges of the North Bay. Our mission is to create an engaged and environmentally ready society, one where all people have the skills to find solutions to the challenges facing our earth. SSU Preserves are open to everyone engaged in education or research. Reservations are required.