NSAC Researcher Receives AIC Sustainable Futures Award

Dr. Chris Cutler of Nova Scotia Agricultural College (NSAC) is the first recipient of the Agricultural Institute of Canada’s (AIC) Sustainable Futures Award. The award recognizes a young professional who shows great potential as an innovation leader; as an integrator and communicator and as someone who understands and supports the economic, environmental and social elements of sustainability.

Dr. Cutler is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Environmental Sciences at NSAC and has developed a highly-respected and innovative research program in blueberry entomology that addresses issues important to both the agricultural industry and the science of sustainable crop production.

“Innovative, problem solving research which addresses the leading issues facing agriculture is critical to the future sustainability of the industry,” said NSAC Vice President of Research, Extension and Outreach Dr. Richard Donald. “We are very proud of Dr. Cutler and his research program which contributes greatly to our ability to support, healthy, sustainable communities.”

Dr. Cutler’s research program recognizes that the sustainability of wild blueberry production depends not only upon the development of appropriate strategies to control pests and facilitate pollination, but also that the biology and ecology of the blue berry field must be understood and respected as a natural habitat and a place where human food must be produced in a socially acceptable manner.

His research will contribute to the expansion and long term sustainability of the blueberry agro ecosystem. Chris’ research, his commitment to and understanding of the broader concept of sustainability and his ability to communicate this concept to a wide range of stakeholders, makes him a true leader in innovative sustainability.

The Sustainable Futures Award includes a cash prize to be used to support the recipient’s research and a complimentary five-year membership in the Agricultural Institute of Canada. The award was presented during the Atlantic Agricultural Forum in Truro, April 22, 2010.