| MISA was founded on the principle of collaboration between community groups and the University of Minnesota, and we carry that principle forward in all of our work. Our core programs could not function without the support of many other individuals and groups, and we in turn provide support for the work of other organizations.
The Endowed Chair program brings visiting scholars to the University of Minnesota. MISA administers this program on behalf of the School of Agriculture Alumni.
Alternative Livestock Systems builds on our years of work with Alternative Swine Production Systems. We are expanding into work with other species of livestock. MISA provides a full-time coordinator for this program.
Minnesota SARE is a connection to the national and regional SARE (Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education) programs. It is housed in the MISA office and shares a staff person with MISA.
Student Programs in sustainable agriculture were developed within the University of Minnesota's Department of Agronomy and Plant Genetics, and are now available University-wide as a free-standing minor degree program. MISA staff coordinate the program.
The Student Organic Farm was developed by students and professors involved in the sustainable agriculture degree program. MISA provides staff support and general encouragement.
Green Lands, Blue Waters was born as an Endowed Chair appointment. It has taken on a life of its own as an effort to coordinate research at several land-grant universities to address soil conservation and water quality in lands drained by the Mississippi River.
Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships are citizen-led collaborations between communities and the University of Minnesota in five regions of the state. MISA provides some staff and office support, and maintains close ties with the state and regional coordinators. | 
