Core4 is a program of the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC), West Lafayette, Indiana.

PPI has held a seat on the Board of Directors of CTIC for several years and cooperates on development of educational materials and other programs. CTIC supports conservation practices in crop production through educational programs and informatoon services. Perhaps most important, it provides an open forum for discussion, interaction, and cooperation among agribusinesses, producer organizations, government agencies and environmental groups. This forum has been important to developing a working relationship to sort out common ground on key issues of cropping systems and the environment, and for helping guide research, education programs, government policies and regulatory activities.

Core4 is a common-sense approach to improving farm profitability while addressing environmental concerns. The approach is easily adaptable to virtually any farming situation and can be fine tuned to meet your unique needs. The net result is better soil, cleaner water, greater on-farm profits, and a brighter future for all of us. Better soil Sustainable soils which increase long-term productivity result from increased organic matter, improved soil moisture, reduced compaction, sequestered carbon, and reduced erosion from water and wind. Cleaner water In addition to food, fiber, energy and other renewable resources, agriculture can also protect and improve water quality. Greater on-farm profits Sharpening management skills and utilizing the latest appropriate technologies result in higher levels of economic efficiency and cropland productivity A brighter future for all of us. Consumer expectations include more than abundant food, fiber and energy. They also expect agriculture to protect air, soil, water, and wildlife. For more information about Core 4, see the CTIC Website: http://www.ctic.purdue.edu/CTIC/CTIC.html