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Investing in Education & Research
We invest in the research and leaders who will advance our natural resource industries as they continue to find new ways and efficiencies to feed, shelter and clothe an ever-growing world population. We have long partnered with universities to source quality employees, share information and support industry initiatives. We intend for our partnerships to benefit rural communities and the customers we serve.
Here are a few stories of our support for higher education and research.
University of Idaho
Juntos 4-H program is creating a brighter future for Latinx students
Fortunately, the high school dropout rate is declining. However, Latinx youth continue to have a higher dropout rate compared to other ethnic groups. Community assessments show that Latinx families need support to help their children academically succeed by focusing on college and career readiness. Northwest Farm Credit is proud to support the Juntos 4-H program in fulfilling this need. Read more

Montana State University Wool Lab
Research helps producers tap into growing consumer demand for sustainable wool products grown in the U.S.
The Montana Wool Lab is helping producers tap into growing consumer demand for natural fibers and wool products produced in the U.S. It’s one of only two research and service laboratories in the nation designed to help producers improve the traits of their wool through genetics, ultimately boosting their incomes sustainably. Read more

University of Alaska
Resources for commercial fisheries at your fingertips.
Getting started in commercial fishing isn't easy. Today's beginning fishermen are met with high operating costs, limited opportunities for entry and plenty of risk, proving they need support and access to resources more than ever before. Northwest FCS is proud to help the University of Alaska and Alaska Sea Grant support the next generation of commercial seafood harvesters. Read more

Oregon State University
Dairy pilot plant supports Northwest producers.
There is nothing better than hands-on experience, especially for the next generation in agriculture. Supported by Northwest FCS, through the OSU Foundation, Oregon State University’s new dairy pilot plant will provide students with a larger-scale commercial dairy processing experience and serve as a business incubator for the region’s dairy entrepreneurs. Read more

Washington State University
Honey-bee research facility improves colony health.
Honey bees are the most economically valuable pollinator in the world, yet the crisis they’ve faced over the past two decades is putting the U.S. food supply at risk. In response, Washington State University’s honey bee researchers are finding new ways to increase colony health and diversify the gene pool. We are proud to support the new honey bee pollinator research facility in Othello, Wash., now home to the world’s premier program and some of the brightest, next generation talent to help save the bees. Read more

Investing in Leadership Development
The future of agriculture depends on capable, visionary leaders. Northwest Farm Credit Services understands the power of education and leadership training and supports professional development programs including:
Washington AgForestry Leadership Program
Oregon State University Leadership Academy
REAL Montana (Resource Education and Agricultural Leadership)