The Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute at the University of Nebraska works to address the global challenge of achieving food security with less stress on water resources through water management in agricultural and food systems.

Our mission

Our mission is to have a lasting and significant impact on achieving more food security with less pressure on scarce water resources by conducting scientific and policy research, using the research results to inform policy makers, and sharing knowledge through education and communication.

Our vision

Our vision is for a food and water secure world: one in which global food security is ensured without compromising the use of water to meet other vital human and environmental needs.

Our goals

Over the next decade to 2034, we will build on our strong foundation. We will strengthen our actions and recognition as global thought leaders in water management in agricultural and food systems and related human and ecosystem health. To succeed, we will make Nebraska the global focal point for developing career opportunities and leadership trajectories for people working in water and food security. Our commitment is to:

• Take a systems-based, interdisciplinary approach to three focus areas:
  • High-productivity commercial agriculture
  • Smallholder agricultural water management
  • Environmental and human health in agricultural systems
• Build needs-based multidisciplinary programs with clearly defined impact pathways
  • For our partners outside of the University of Nebraska System, we will:
    • Develop projects and creative partnerships, including with the CGIAR system and multilateral donors, with entrepreneurial ecosystems, and with nonprofit and for-profit enterprises
    • Provide engagement, capacity building, and mutual learning opportunities, as well as access to a talent pipeline for Nebraska and the world
  • For our partners within the University of Nebraska System, we will leverage our networks to support our students, faculty, and staff for collaboration and professional development
• Use our research and policy analysis results to inform decision- and policymakers, water managers, and influencers in food and water security through strategic communication and engagement activities

Our people

Our staff are an essential part of our mission and work every day toward a more water and food secure world. In addition to DWFI staff, we also work closely with those from the Nebraska Water Center and the Water Sciences Lab.

View Meet Our People Page