Office of Programs
Overview
The Office of Programs (OoP) operates under the idea that agricultural productivity enhancement
is the cornerstone for improved food security and economic growth in developing and emerging
market economy countries. OoP’s extensive experience in cost-effective fertilizer production, soil
fertility management, fertilizer policy and supply/demand strategies provides the scientific and policy
knowledge base required to help transition smallholders from low-input/low-output systems to one in
which investments in proven nutrient management strategies and required agro-inputs are possible.
Together, OoP and IFDC’s field projects target fundamental and applied research geared toward
nutrient use efficiencies and policy actions that produce improvements in the fertilizer supply chain
in order to support IFDC’s global efforts in fertilizer market development for smallholders. As a result,
OoP’s staff collaborate with public and private sector organizations, international institutions and
development partners in issues related to fertilizer production and use.
Fertilizer Technology
The Fertilizer Technology group conducts research and development projects that characterize and
identify the most efficient use of fertilizer raw materials and recovery of nutrients from waste and byproducts to develop fertilizer production processes. These activities are conducted under contract and
in collaboration with private companies, government institutions and international organizations.
In 2014, the group conducted research/testing for 25 private client projects in the pilot plant. In
addition, a number of product analyses, industry trainings and fertilizer manufacturing facility
evaluations were conducted. The group also provided technical assistance to 11 IFDC projects in the
Center’s EurAsia and Africa divisions, and supported numerous specialized trainings and workshops
conducted by IFDC’s Training and Workshop Coordination Unit.
Soil and Plant Nutrition
The Soil and Plant Nutrition team develops and promotes technologies, information, decision support
tools and management practices that improve the efficiencies of cropping systems and soil and water
resources. The program contributes to more economical, sustainable and environmentally sound
crop food production. This is accomplished by fosterin