Mobilizing science for global food security. Fourth External Review of CIMMYT (Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research ). (1998): Chapter 3 - Crosscutting Programmes: 3.1 Natural Resources Group: 3.1.4. Conclusions

Mobilizing science for global food security. Fourth External Review of CIMMYT (Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research ). (1998)

Chapter 3 - Crosscutting Programmes

3.1 Natural Resources Group

		3.1.1 Background
		3.1.2 Achievements, Impact, and Quality of Science
		3.1.3 Future Challenges and Opportunities
		3.1.4. Conclusions

3.1.4. Conclusions

The EPMR strongly supports the establishment of the NRG and sees tremendous opportunities for the NRG to serve a catalytic role in strengthening internal linkages among CIMMYT's research programmes and regional projects, and external linkages among NARS and other international agricultural research centres (IARCs). Given the small size of the NRG, however, success will depend on a tightly focused research agenda, strategic alliances with ARIs, and a proper balance between research, service, and training commitments. The Panel recommends that the NRG have a primary focus on conservation tillage and associated soil and crop management practices that enhance productivity and protect natural resources in maize- and wheat-based cropping systems. The Panel further recommends reallocation of some IRS time and associated budgets to a coordinated effort on strategic and applied research on conservation tillage systems within the FP 7 project to provide a critical mass to this effort.