Sarah Taylor Lovell
Director of the Center for Agroforestry at the University of Missouri

Lovell’s research focuses broadly on the analysis and design of multifunctional landscapes, with emphasis on agroforestry and urban agriculture. The agroforestry work includes the integration of productive woody trees and shrubs into agricultural landscapes, to improve the environmental health and cultural significance of the agroecosystem. The work in urban agriculture assesses the benefits of food production systems including plant biodiversity, pollination services, and cultural functions, as well as the impact on food security of the participating households. Recent grants provide support for Lovell’s lab to study woody polyculture systems that could offer fruit and nut products, through a diverse mix of species that are also suitable for conservation.